The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has announced June 20 to June 22 as the dates for the national trials that will determine the country’s athletics team for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
According to a statement released by Maxwell Kumoye, Chairman of the AFN Media Committee, the trials will take place at the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) Sports Complex in Lagos and will feature many of Nigeria’s leading track and field athletes.
Kumoye described the event as a critical stage in the selection process, stressing that participation is compulsory for all athletes seeking a place on Team Nigeria for the Games.
He noted that the championship is expected to attract both established stars and emerging talents, making it one of the most competitive domestic athletics events in recent years.
The three-day competition will feature 32 events across the men’s and women’s categories. However, participation in the 100m, 200m and 400m events will be limited to athletes who have met the federation’s qualifying standards, while all other track and field events will remain open.
The arrangement, according to the federation, is intended to ensure a high standard of competition in the sprint events while allowing broader participation across other disciplines.
Athletes are expected to arrive in Lagos on June 19 and depart on June 23. The federation also confirmed that accommodation will be provided for athletes who achieved the required qualification standards during the designated period.
A list of athletes who have met the qualifying benchmarks is expected to be published in the coming days.
Kumoye said the trials would provide athletes with an opportunity to earn selection for one of the biggest multi-sport events on the international calendar, while also showcasing the depth of talent within Nigerian athletics.
AFN President Tonobok Okowa urged stakeholders, athletics enthusiasts and supporters to rally behind the athletes during the championship.
He described the trials as an important step in Nigeria’s preparations for Glasgow 2026 and expressed confidence that the competition would help identify the country’s strongest medal prospects.
Okowa also acknowledged the support of the National Sports Commission (NSC), noting that its backing has contributed to the growth of athletics and the improved performance of elite athletes across the country.
With the Commonwealth Games approaching, attention will now turn to Lagos, where athletes will battle for places on Team Nigeria in what is expected to be a fiercely contested championship.