By Uzor Odigbo
United States of America based Nigerian athletes have started to trickle in for the National Olympic Trials billed for June 16-18 at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City.
Athletics Federation of Nigeria officials said they are expecting a full house of athletes as the competition is a selection trial for the Olympics 2024 in Paris, France and the African Championships in Cameroon later in June.
“All roads lead to Benin City. There is no excuse for any Nigerian athletes wishing to be in the Olympic team to excuse themselves for the trials,” said a top official of the AFN.
“It basically kicks starts our preparations for the Olympics and there is a lot we have to put in proper perspective, talking about the relay teams in particular. By Saturday we expect all athletes to be in Benin City.”
It was gathered that athletes like high jumper Justine Jimoh with a 2.17m PB who joined the US bandwagon earlier this year and is looking to clear 2.33m to secure a spot on the olympic team, Grace Anigba triple jumper who has been missing in action, Samuel Ogazi, Success Umukoro, Ashe Favour are being expected Wednesday.
Also the legion of Nigerian throwers Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, Chioma Onyekwere, Ashley Anumba, Sade Olatoye and Obiageri Amaechi are making preparations to depart their base.
It was gathered that Israel Adesina, a discus thrower with 54.17 PB would be making his first visit to Nigeria with a view of competing at the African Champions as he aims for the Olympics qualifying standard of 67.20m.
Meanwhile, Edo State Sports commission executive chairman, Mr. Yusuf Alli hinted that every arrangement has been made for a successful championships: “We are ready and waiting for the athletes arrival and are looking forward to three days of lively competition in a conducive atmosphere.