The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) says a “brighter season” lies ahead for Nigerian track and field athletes, as they prepare for a packed programme of international events and domestic campaigns in 2026. According to board member and Performance Director Victor Okorie, athletes will benefit from improved preparation timelines, enhanced support systems, and expanded partnerships ahead of the upcoming National Sports Festival in Enugu.
Okorie, speaking during a media briefing, said the federation has worked to ensure that next year’s calendar is released early, giving athletes “enough time to prepare properly – mentally, physically, and emotionally.” He emphasised that in addition to scheduled events such as the Nationals, the Confederation of African Athletics Championships, World Relay Championship, Commonwealth Games and Youth Olympics, the training system must also shift to a more professional model.
Part of the strategy involves partnerships with sportswear brands — AFN is reportedly in discussions with several companies willing to supply high-quality kits, an effort Okorie said is aimed at boosting athlete pride, comfort and performance. “We want our athletes to feel proud in what they wear,” he stated.
Okorie also argued that athletics must be seen as more than just competition: “It can build brands, create jobs, and inspire communities,” he said, calling on corporate Nigeria to support athlete development beyond medals. He highlighted the role of the National Sports Commission (NSC) in providing foundational support but stressed that private-sector investment remains critical to long-term growth.
Turning to the Enugu 2026 National Sports Festival, Okorie said the event will not just be a competition but a showcase for state development, culture and opportunity. He revealed Enugu’s intention to compete across all 36 sports and challenged the state to finish in the top three of the medals table. He expressed confidence that “Enugu has the athletes, the heart, and the hunger to succeed. We’re not just hosting the games – we’re competing to win.”
The AFN’s roadmap also includes recruiting and retaining talent, improving facilities, and investing in athlete welfare and sports science. Okorie said technical teams comprising architects, surveyors and sports scientists have begun reviewing facilities, with expectations to deliver revitalised health, training and competition infrastructure by March.
As Nigeria moves into this next phase of athletic ambition, stakeholders say the twin challenges will be securing sustainable funding and maintaining accountability to ensure that efforts translate into performance on the global stage. With the right execution, Okorie believes Nigerian athletes stand a strong chance of reclaiming regional dominance and making deeper impressions internationally.
