Yaba College of Technology, Lagos literally came alive on Friday, as competitors, coaches, officials, fans and commercial service operators started arriving for this weekend’s national athletics trials at the institution’s sports complex, Sports247 reports.
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A beehive of activities and human traffic increased from the institution’s gates and extended into the premises, especially the hostels and sports arena, where a large number of home-based athletes started putting finishing touches to their preparations for the three-day competition.
The arrival of mostly home-based competitors was in line with a schedule earlier announced by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) to set the trials in motion with a camp for non-elite athletes on the first day of the Commonwealth Games’ selection programme.
Officials disclosed that all amenities, logistics and services required to make the camp conducive for the athletes were finalised on Wednesday, as the organisers put finishing touches to preparations for the arrival of invitees from across the country.
However, officials directed that the camp is open only to qualified athletes, who will be supervised for their final phase of preparations ahead of the highly-anticipated trials, which are expected to attract some of the country’s finest track and field talents.
A media release by the AFN’s communications department added that the national trials promise to be explosive and exciting, as Nigeria’s top athletes will tussle for spots to represent the country at Glasgow 2026 from July 23rd to August 2nd.
The AFN’s statement added, “With top stars, emerging talents and federation officials all converging on Lagos, the countdown has truly begun for what is expected to be one of the most keenly contested athletics events of the year.
“Athletes from Akwa Ibom State were among the first contingents to arrive in the nation’s commercial capital, followed closely by their counterparts from Kwara State. Several elite athletes have also touched down in Lagos.
“AFN President, Chief Tonobok Okowa, alongside members of the federation’s technical committee, are expected to ensure smooth trials. Equipment has also started arriving as organisers intensify efforts to deliver a successful championship.
“National Institute for Sports (NIS) at the National Stadium, Surulere served as the transit camp for early arrivals, providing accommodation and logistical support for athletes and officials before the commencement of activities.”
