The National Sports Commission (NSC) has celebrated Nigeria’s outstanding performances at the Prefontaine Classic Diamond League in Eugene, Oregon, with Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade describing the athletes’ exploits as another major statement of the country’s growing strength in world athletics.
Leading Nigeria’s impressive outing was sprint sensation Kanyinsola Ajayi, who announced himself on the Diamond League stage in spectacular fashion by winning the men’s 100 metres on his debut in an outstanding 9.84 seconds, equalling the Nigerian record and defeating reigning world champion Oblique Seville of Jamaica.
The remarkable performance further established Ajayi as one of the fastest men in the world this season and strengthened expectations ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
«”These performances are great news for Nigerian athletics and further demonstrate the incredible talents of our athletes. They belong among the very best in the world, and I believe the future is even brighter for them,” Olopade said.»
Nigeria’s world record holder Tobi Amusan also continued her impressive form by finishing second in the women’s 100m hurdles in 12.34 seconds, while Ella Onojuvwevwo produced another sub-51-second performance to place fifth in the women’s 400 metres on her Diamond League debut.
In the men’s 400 metres, Ezekiel Nathaniel recorded a season’s best of 45.32 seconds, while African record holder Chukwuebuka Enekwechi finished sixth in the men’s shot put with a throw of 21.36 metres.
Olopade said the performances have boosted confidence within Team Nigeria as preparations enter the final phase for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
«”The Diamond League showed that our athletes are in excellent shape ahead of the Commonwealth Games. I congratulate them and wish them injury-free preparations as they continue flying the Nigerian flag with pride,” he added.»
The NSC boss also expressed satisfaction with the progress of Team Nigeria’s training camp in Aberdeen, where athletes are completing the final phase of preparations before moving to Glasgow for the Games.
The National Sports Commission reaffirmed its commitment to providing the necessary support for Team Nigeria, expressing confidence that the country’s athletes can build on their impressive Diamond League performances and deliver another successful outing at the Commonwealth Games.
