August 09, (THEWILL) – The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), has announced a 26-member contingent for the World Athletics Championships in Budapest from August 19-27 with World Record holder Oluwatobiloba Amusan noticeably absent.
Apart from Amusan, the squad is also without two other top athletes, Udodi Onwuzurike and Godson Brume. Amusan, the record holder and defending world champion in the 100m hurdles, is currently under investigation by the Athletics Integrity Unit for missing three drug tests. With the outcome of her case still pending, the AFN has opted not to include her in the contingent.
Onwuzurike, who won the NCAA 200m title earlier this year, is battling injury after aggravating it at a meet in Togo while Brume announced on social media that he is focusing on recovery for the 2024 Paris Olympics. In Onwuzurike and Brume’s absences, the AFN has called up Usheoritse Itsekiri, Seye Ogunlewe and Karlington Anunagba to the men’s 100m and relay pool. The women’s squad is headlined by Favour Ofili, Grace Nwokocha and Rosemary Chukwuma.
Nigeria will be looking to bounce back in Budapest after a disappointing showing at the World Championships in Eugene last month. The country claimed just one medal, a bronze in the women’s 4x100m relay, their worst performance at the biennial event since 2005.
While Amusan will be sorely missed if she is unable to clear her name of AIU’s accusations in time for the Championships, the AFN team features a good blend of youth and experience. Still, missing three of their biggest stars will make it difficult for Nigeria to challenge for medals at the championships. Much will depend on how the younger athletes step up on the big stage.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
