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By Joe Apu
Team Nigeria Athletics have intensified preparations for the forthcoming Commonwealth Games as the six-week first phase of camping entered its second week at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba.
The training programme, organised by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), brings together a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents as Nigeria fine-tunes its strategy for a strong outing at the global showpiece.
Head coach Solomon Aliyu expressed satisfaction with the progress recorded so far, noting that the federation remains focused on a structured, phased build-up.
“We don’t want to be distracted. So far, so good. The camp is in three phases and this is the first phase of the camp,” Aliyu said.
Training Shifts to Event-Specific Focus
Now in week two, preparations have moved from general conditioning to event-specific drills, with sprinters, hurdlers, jumpers and throwers intensifying their routines.
Morning sessions are largely devoted to endurance and strength conditioning, while evening drills focus on speed work and technical refinement.
Camp officials explained that the six-week programme is designed to establish a solid fitness base before transitioning into competitive simulations and international exposure ahead of the Games.
“The response from the athletes has been encouraging,” one coach said. “The first two weeks are critical for fitness and team bonding, and the athletes have shown discipline and hunger.”
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Conducive Environment, High Morale
Officials credited Asaba’s favourable weather and world-class facilities at the Stephen Keshi Stadium for creating an ideal training environment. Beyond physical drills, emphasis has also been placed on nutrition, recovery, and mental conditioning.
Although some invited athletes are yet to report due to their participation in the Niger Delta Games, Aliyu assured that the camp would be fully populated soon.
“We are expecting more to join the camp after the Niger Delta Games. Some of the athletes called to camp are taking part there, so after the NDDC Games we will have a full camp,” he added.
Despite the incomplete squad, the mood within the camp remains upbeat. Aliyu commended both athletes and support staff for their professionalism.
“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 stated.
For younger athletes, the Commonwealth Games represent a platform to announce themselves on the big stage, while established stars are keen to improve on past performances and restore Nigeria’s dominance in track and field.
With four weeks remaining in the first phase, AFN officials are confident that the phased camping strategy will sharpen performance levels and strengthen team cohesion ahead of the Games.
The coaching crew includes Gabriel Okon (Long Sprint/Relay), Ken Onuaguluchi (Throws), Kola Adebayo (Vertical Jumps), George Obiano (Horizontal Jumps), and Esabunor Mavouh, alongside medical and administrative staff.
As the countdown to the Commonwealth Games continues, the atmosphere in Asaba remains focused and optimistic — a clear indication that Team Nigeria Athletics is determined to compete strongly for medals on the international stage.
