World record holder Tobi Amusan and Olympic bronze medallist Ese Brume will lead the Nigerian contingents at the 2025 World Athletics Championships, Afrosport reports.
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) on Sunday unveiled a star-studded 15-athlete squad ahead of the event, which is scheduled to take place in Tokyo, Japan, from 13 to 21 September.
The AFN has named seven women and eight men to represent the country across 11 events, including sprints, long jump and throws.
Other notable names on the list include 400m hurdles rising star Ezekiel Nathaniel, African shot put champion Chukwuebuka Enekwechi and 200m specialist Udodi Onwuzurike, who is gearing up for his second World Championships, having made his debut in Eugene in 2022.
Sprinter Kanyinsola Ajayi, who will be making his World Championships debut, also made the cut alongside Rosemary Chukwuma and Chidi Okezie.
Meanwhile, a number of athletes missed out on selection despite meeting qualification standards. They include Tima Godbless, who qualified for both the women’s 100m and 200m, Kelly Ufodiama (200m), Ella Onojuvwevwo (400m) and high jumper Temitope Adeshina.
AFN President Tonobok Okowa stated that the selected athletes are expected to secure victory for Nigeria at the World Championships.
“We are optimistic that Team Nigeria will make the nation proud,” said Okowa. “The athletes picked have shown consistency and readiness to compete at the highest level.
“I commend the coaches, sponsors and government agencies who continue to support Nigerian athletics.”
Full list of selected athletes
Women: Tobi Amusan (100m hurdles), Ese Brume (Long Jump), Rosemary Chukwuma (100m), Prestina Ochonogor (Long Jump), Chioma Onyekwere (Discus), Obiageri Amaechi (Discus), Oyesade Olatoye (Hammer).
Men: Kanyinsola Ajayi (100m), Israel Okon (100m), Udodi Onwuzurike (200m), Samuel Ogazi (400m), Chidi Okezie (400m), Ezekiel Nathaniel (400m hurdles), Charles Godfred (Long Jump), Chukwuebuka Enekwechi (Shot Put).
