The first day of the Nigeria Olympic Trials wrapped up with a mix of excitement and anticipation.
Key highlights included Favour Ofili and Kanyinsola Ajayi securing their first national titles, while Tobi Amusan breezed into the 100m hurdles final.
Held from June 16 to 18 at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin, the trials aim to crown new national champions and select athletes for the Paris Olympic Games and the African Championships in Cameroon.
World Record holder Tobi Amusan kicked off her campaign for a historic fourth win in the women’s 100m hurdles by clocking an effortless 12.82s (unofficial) in her semifinal.
However, Faith Osamuyi emerged as a strong contender by recording the fastest time of 12.76s (unofficial) in the second semifinal, setting up an intriguing competition with US-based Adaobi Tamugbo for the second spot behind Amusan.
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Favour Ofili made a victorious return to the national stage, claiming her first national title in the women’s 100m with a new season-best of 11.06s, surpassing the Olympic qualifying standard of 11.10s.
Olayinka Olajide followed in second place with 11.37s, while Justina Eyakpobeyan took third in 11.47s.
In the men’s 100m, Kanyinsola Ajayi outperformed seasoned sprinters to clinch the title with a time of 10.14s, narrowly edging out Alaba Akintola who finished in 10.16s.
Defending champion Usheoritse Itsekiri secured third place with 10.22s.
Ajayi’s remarkable performance marks a significant milestone in his athletic career since moving to the USA on a scholarship.
In the women’s 400m heats, Patience George led the pack with a time of 52.38s in the third semifinal.
Omolara Ogunmakinju finished second to qualify for the final, with Blessing Akintoye in third. On the men’s side, Dubem Amene redeemed himself with a win in heat 3, clocking 46.21s.
Sikiru Adewale triumphed in the second heat with an unofficial 46.41s, followed by Chidi Okezie, as both advanced to the final.
The trials continue to showcase the depth of talent in Nigerian athletics, setting the stage for thrilling competitions and the emergence of new champions.
