Egbunike Congratulates Ogazi on Breaking 39-Year Nigerian 400m Record
Innocent Egbunike has congratulated rising star Samuel Ogazi, who ran 44.02 seconds to break his long-standing Nigerian 400m record of 44.17 set in Zurich in August 1987.
Egbunike, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated quarter-milers, held the record for 39 years.
In a message posted on Facebook, he praised Ogazi’s achievement while reflecting on the legacy of Nigerian athletics.
‘Congratulations Ogazi. It is with great enthusiasm that I join members of the sports family in Nigeria and beyond in congratulating Samuel Ogazi, who just broke my Nigerian 400m record,’ Egbunike wrote.
‘I’m thankful to God for allowing me to stand on the shoulders of those before me, like Dele Udo, Sunday Uti (who had the national record before me), as well as my teammates like Moses Ugbusien and Rotimi Peters, and those who came after us, such as late Sunday Bada and Clement Chukwu, to mention a few.
‘I appreciate God’s blessing in paving the way for others, having held the record for 39 years. Records are made to be broken, and I sincerely congratulate Samuel on this incredible achievement. Well done, young man!’
Egbunike, fondly called Ejima, urged Ogazi to remain humble in his new role as Nigeria’s 400m record holder.
‘I pray that God continues to guide and bless you. Stay humble and be a blessing to everyone around you. As the new face of Nigeria in the 400 meters, you now have the responsibility to lead by example.
‘Stay confident but humble, and use your talent to honor and worship God. Remember to keep close to those who knew you before your rise, stay committed to your education (for knowledge is power), walk with integrity, and inspire others through your abilities.
‘Samuel, I wish you continued success in all your future pursuits. God bless you and shalom!’
Egbunike won Nigeria’s first track medal at the World Championships when he claimed silver in the 400m in Rome in 1987. He was also part of the 4x400m relay team that won bronze at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.
