US Immigration Rules Threaten Nigeria’s Athletics Squad For Glasgow
Visa Uncertainty Clouds Nigeria’s Commonwealth Games Plans
NIGERIA’S build-up to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow is facing a major setback, as several top athletes risk missing the competition due to growing concerns over United States immigration policies.
A significant number of Nigeria’s elite track and field athletes are currently based in the United States, where they train and compete. However, recent developments in U.S. immigration procedures have created uncertainty for visa holders, particularly those without American passports.
Athletes fear that travelling out of the U.S.—even for major international competitions—could jeopardise their chances of re-entry, despite holding valid visas. This has reportedly made many reluctant to leave the country ahead of key global events, including the Commonwealth Games scheduled for 23 July to 3 August.
The impact of the situation has already been felt. At a recent global indoor competition in Poland, Nigeria was represented by only one athlete, Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, who holds a U.S. passport. Other athletes based in the U.S. reportedly opted out of the event to avoid immigration complications.
An official familiar with the matter explained that the issue is not linked to lapses by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria or the National Sports Commission, but rather stems from evolving immigration requirements that may force visa holders to reapply for entry if they travel abroad.
Among those potentially affected are top Nigerian athletes, including Tobi Amusan, Kanyinsola Ajayi and Samuel Ogazi, all of whom are key to Nigeria’s medal prospects.
Sports administrators are now working to find solutions that will allow athletes to compete internationally without risking their residency status in the U.S. However, with the Games fast approaching, time is running out.
Failure to resolve the issue could significantly weaken Nigeria’s chances in athletics—one of its strongest events—at the Glasgow Games.
