Nigerian athletes were absent from the 2025 World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing due to visa issues that reduced their team. Key athletes, including Ezekiel Nathaniel and Success Umukoro, were missing from the event schedules. Although the AFN made efforts to send athletes, participation remains uncertain as the championship continues.
As the 2025 World Athletics Indoor Championships commenced in Nanjing, China, Nigerian athletes were notably absent from the start lists. The country’s participation was significantly affected by visa complications, resulting in the withdrawal of its 10-member team. On the opening day of the event, no Nigerian athletes were present in the competition schedules for both Friday and Saturday.
Notably, Ezekiel Nathaniel, the new African record holder in the indoor 400m, was absent from the heats for this event. Likewise, Success Umukoro, Nigeria’s sole participant in the women’s 60m, was also missing from the lineup. Earlier this week, World Athletics had published the names of ten Nigerian competitors who were anticipated to participate in several events including the women’s 60m, high jump, long jump, men’s 400m, shot put, and the men’s 4x400m relay.
Among the athletes listed were shot putter Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, and others such as Chidi Okezie, Temitope Adeshina, and Prestina Ochonogor, a finalist from the Paris Olympics. Despite the situation, reports indicate that the Athletic Federation of Nigeria (AFN) made efforts to ensure the athletes reached China, considering initially not participating due to the demanding schedules of many competing in the NCAA.
As the championship unfolds, attention will be focused on whether Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, reportedly in China, will partake in men’s shot put and the 4x400m relay. In the opening day events, Great Britain’s Jeremiah Azu claimed gold in the 60m final, marking an exciting conclusion to the day’s competitions. Azu clinched the title with a time of 6.49 seconds, equaling his personal best, while Australia’s Lachlan Kennedy and South Africa’s Akani Simbine secured silver and bronze, respectively, in a thrilling race.
In conclusion, the absence of Nigerian athletes from the World Athletics Indoor Championships highlights significant challenges, notably visa issues that have prevented participation. Although several athletes were expected to compete, the realities of logistics have impeded their ability to engage in the event. As the competition progresses, there remains hope for the inclusion of any remaining Nigerian representatives in upcoming events. The initial victories of other countries, particularly Great Britain, provide an exciting atmosphere at the championship.
Original Source: punchng.com
