Thursday, June 18, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

Onikeku charges Nigerian athletes to make nation proud at African Championships

Team

Renowned sports technocrat and athletics administrator, Samuel Onikeku, has urged Nigerian athletes heading to Accra, Ghana, for the forthcoming CAA African Championships to compete with determination, discipline and national pride.

Speaking with FAKS MEDIA ahead of the continental competition, Onikeku expressed confidence in the ability of the Nigerian contingent to excel, describing the championship as a major platform for athletes to showcase their talent, resilience and commitment to excellence.

According to him, Nigeria has consistently remained one of Africa’s athletics powerhouses and must use the competition in Ghana to reaffirm its status among the continent’s elite sporting nations.

He charged the athletes to remain focused throughout the championship and give their best in every event, stressing that representing Nigeria comes with great responsibility and honour.

Onikeku also advised the athletes to uphold discipline, unity, sportsmanship and respect for the rules of the sport, noting that success should not only be measured by medals won but also by the conduct displayed during the competition.

The athletics administrator further emphasized the importance of integrity and fair play, urging the athletes to compete clean at all times in order to protect both their reputation and that of the country.

“Nigerian athletes possess the talent and ability to dominate on the African stage if they remain mentally strong and committed to hard work,” he stated.

He encouraged the athletes to remain confident despite the expected stiff competition from other African nations, adding that preparation, discipline and self-belief would be key to achieving success in Accra.

Onikeku also commended the efforts of coaches, officials and the Athletics Federation of Nigeria for their continued support and preparation ahead of the championship.

As anticipation builds towards the championships in Ghana, Onikeku’s message serves as both motivation and a reminder of the high expectations placed on Nigerian athletes whenever they represent the country on the international stage.