Team Nigeria Intensifies Commonwealth Games Camp In Asaba
Three-Phase Programme Gains Momentum
TEAM Nigeria’s athletics contingent has stepped up preparations for the upcoming Commonwealth Games, with the first phase of a six-week training camp progressing steadily in Asaba, Delta State. The athletes are camped at the iconic Stephen Keshi Stadium, where coaches say focus and discipline have defined the early days of the programme.
Head Coach of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Solomon Aliyu, expressed satisfaction with the progress recorded so far. According to him, the camp is structured into three phases, beginning with general conditioning before transitioning into technical and competition-focused sessions.
“We don’t want distractions. So far, so good,” Aliyu said, noting that the phased approach is designed to ensure athletes peak at the right time.
From Conditioning to Event-Specific Drills
By the second week, training had shifted from basic fitness work to event-specific drills. Sprinters, hurdlers, jumpers and throwers now follow specialised routines tailored to their disciplines.
Morning sessions are dedicated to endurance, strength and conditioning, while evening workouts emphasise speed, coordination and technical refinement. Coaches describe the first two weeks as critical for building fitness levels and strengthening team chemistry.
Officials say the six-week programme will lay a strong foundation before the athletes move into competitive simulations and possible international exposure ahead of the Games.
Favourable Conditions, High Morale
Asaba’s warm weather and modern facilities have created an ideal environment for preparation. Beyond physical training, attention is also being given to nutrition, recovery and mental conditioning.
While some invited athletes are yet to report due to their participation in the Niger Delta Games, Aliyu confirmed that the camp will be at full capacity once those engagements conclude.
Despite the temporary absences, morale remains high. The coaching crew has praised the athletes’ commitment and the support structure in place, including accommodation, catering and medical services.
Blend of Experience and Youth
The camp features a mix of established stars and emerging talents determined to make an impact. Among those currently training are Chidera Ezeakor (100/200m); Jenet Sunday and Precious Uduvweghre (100m hurdles); Musa Wisdom Great and Abdulaziz Abdullahi (110m hurdles); and 400m athletes Toteebat Jimoh, Ezekiel Asuquo, Emmanuel Ojeli, Samson Nathaniel, Victor Ime, Esther Okon Peter and Emmanuel Salubi.
In the field events, Victoria Kparika and Samuel Kure (javelin), Edet Clergy (high jump), Rukewe Nwagbogwu (long jump), Dickson Ugochukwu (shot put) and Olaoluwa Akindunbi (triple jump) are sharpening their skills.
The technical crew includes Gabriel Okon (long sprint and relay), Ken Onuaguluchi (throws), Kola Adebayo (vertical jumps), George Obiano (horizontal jumps) and others, supported by medical personnel Derrick Akhafa and Francis Eramu.
With structured planning and a clear roadmap, the AFN is optimistic that Team Nigeria will mount a strong medal challenge at the Commonwealth Games.
