AFN Confident as Commonwealth Games Preparations Intensify in Asaba
Team Nigeria’s athletics team has intensified preparations for the forthcoming Commonwealth Games as their six‑week first phase camping programme entered its second week in Asaba.
The camp, which features a mix of experienced athletes and emerging talents, has already taken shape with rigorous training sessions at the Stephen Keshi Stadium. Coaches and technical officials have expressed satisfaction with the athletes’ commitment, noting that the early signs point to a productive build‑up.
Head coach of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Solomon Aliyu, said he is pleased with the progress made so far.
‘We don’t want to be distracted. So far, so good. The camp is in three phases and this is the first phase,’ he explained.
Now in week two, the focus has shifted from general conditioning to event‑specific drills, with sprinters, jumpers, throwers and hurdlers intensifying their routines.
Morning sessions are devoted to endurance and strength work, while evenings feature technical refinement and speed training.
Camp officials say the programme is designed to lay a solid foundation before the team transitions into competitive simulations and international exposure ahead of the Games.
‘The response from the athletes has been encouraging,’ one coach remarked. ‘The first two weeks are critical for fitness and team bonding, and the athletes have shown discipline and hunger.’
Asaba’s weather and facilities have been credited for creating the right environment for preparation. Athletes have settled into camp life, with emphasis placed on nutrition, recovery and mental strength.
Aliyu noted that while some invited athletes are yet to report due to national commitments, they are expected to join after the Niger Delta Games.
Despite not having a complete squad, the mood in camp remains upbeat. Aliyu commended the athletes and support staff for their professionalism, adding that accommodation, training and feeding have all met expectations.
‘The spirit in camp is very high. The quality of accommodation is good and the quality of training is top notch. The feeding is good, no negative feedback,’ he said.
For younger athletes, the Games present an opportunity to announce themselves on the big stage, while experienced stars are determined to improve on past performances and restore Nigeria’s dominance in track and field.
With morale high and facilities meeting expectations, the AFN is confident that the phased camping strategy will fine‑tune Nigeria’s athletes ahead of the global showpiece.
As more competitors arrive after the Niger Delta Games, attention will shift toward sharpening performance levels and building team cohesion.
With four more weeks remaining in the first phase, expectations are high that Team Nigeria Athletics will emerge sharper, stronger and fully prepared to compete for medals when the Commonwealth Games begin.
