‘Be Proud of Your Roots, Stay Committed’: Kanyinsola Ajayi Tells Young Athletes in Lagos

Nigerian sprint sensation Ajayi has urged young athletes to remain committed to their dreams and proud of their roots after being honoured by the Lagos State Athletics Association.

‘Be proud of your roots, stay committed and work hard,’ Ajayi told the young athletes who attended the ceremony held in his honour in Lagos.

The reigning NCAA 60m and 100m champion said athletes must remain grounded and make the most of every opportunity that comes their way.

‘Today, I compete not just for myself, but for every young person watching who needs to know that excellence is possible. Represent your country well. Represent Africa with pride. Stay rooted in your community and your family. Work hard early. And when the door opens, work through it with purpose,’ he said.

Ajayi made history earlier this year by becoming the first Nigerian male student-athlete to win both the NCAA indoor 60m and outdoor 100m titles in the same season.

He became only the second Nigerian student-athlete to achieve the feat after Blessing Okagbare, who previously won the NCAA 60m and 100m titles in 2010.

The Lagos-born sprinter, who grew up in Ikorodu, has enjoyed a remarkable rise from representing the state at the 2022 National Sports Festival in Asaba, where he won gold, to becoming Nigeria’s national 100m record holder.

Ajayi set the Nigerian record of 9.84 seconds earlier this year and has continued to make his mark on the global stage.

At the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, he won two medals for Nigeria before going on to finish on the podium at the Diamond League Final.

He also finished fourth at the World Athletics Ultimate Championships after a strong campaign that included several impressive performances during the NCAA season.

The celebration was organised by the Lagos State Athletics Association to recognise Ajayi’s achievements and acknowledge the role played by his family and coaches in his development.

His mother was also honoured and presented with gifts in recognition of her sacrifices and support throughout her son’s career.

Ajayi expressed his appreciation to the association for the recognition, saying it was special to be celebrated in front of his family and the next generation of athletes.