Nigerian Athletes Gear Up for Redemption at 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo

January 29, 2025 – Nigerian athletes are gearing up for an eventful year as they set their sights on the 2025 World Athletics Championships, scheduled to take place in Tokyo, Japan, from September 13 to 21.

Following a disappointing performance at the recent Olympics and other international competitions, there is renewed hope that Nigerian athletes will excel on the global stage.

Among those leading the charge is Ese Brume, Nigeria’s long jump star, who has expressed her determination to claim gold at the upcoming championships.

Brume, who holds the African record in women’s long jump at 7.17 meters, recently received support from the National Sports Commission (NSC) through its Adopt-an-Athlete Training Grant initiative. Despite facing personal challenges, including a recent car accident, Brume remains focused on her goal of securing a medal in Tokyo.

Brume’s journey to the championships will mark her fourth appearance at the World Athletics Championships, where she previously won bronze in 2019 and silver in 2022. A podium finish this time would not only be a significant milestone for her career but also make her the first Nigerian athlete to win medals in three World Championship appearances.

The 2025 championships present a crucial opportunity for Nigeria’s track stars to redeem themselves after a lackluster outing in Budapest during the 2023 World Championships. Athletes like Tobi Amusan, who gained global recognition for her performances in the 100m hurdles, are also expected to make a strong comeback. Both Amusan and Brume have pledged to push for medals as they prepare for the competition.

The upcoming championship is part of a busy sports calendar for Nigeria in 2025, which includes key events such as the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). With significant investments being made in grassroots development and athlete support programs, there is cautious optimism that Nigerian athletes can achieve greater success on the international stage.

As preparations intensify for the World Athletics Championships, all eyes will be on Nigeria’s athletes as they strive to improve their standings and bring home medals.

The Tokyo event promises to be a pivotal moment for Nigerian athletics, showcasing talent and resilience as they aim to reclaim their place among the world’s elite competitors. Fans and stakeholders alike are hopeful that this year will mark a turning point for Nigerian sports.