Samuel Ogazi has announced his arrival in the 2026 athletics season with a stunning performance at the New Mexico Collegiate Classic, clocking 44.85 seconds in the men’s 400m indoors.
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The Nigerian sprinter’s time ranks as the second-fastest indoor 400m ever run by an African, placing him just behind compatriot Ezekiel Nathaniel, who holds the continental record at 44.75s.
Ogazi’s mark also sees him tie Fred Kerley for 13th place on the world all-time indoor list, underlining the global significance of the run.
Competing in his first 400m race of the year, Ogazi showed composure and power throughout the one-lap event, signaling strong form early in the season and positioning himself as one of Africa’s leading quarter-milers heading into the rest of 2026.
The performance adds to Nigeria’s growing reputation in the 400m, particularly indoors, and sets a high benchmark for Ogazi as he targets further records and major championship qualification later in the year.
With such a commanding season opener, expectations will now rise for the young Nigerian as the indoor circuit continues.
