The atmosphere in Tokyo is charged with anticipation. For Nigeria, the 2025 World Athletics Championships is more than a sporting contest—it is a test of resilience, a fight for recognition, and a chance to etch new names into the record books.
After years of mixed fortunes on the global stage, the nation’s hope now rests on a small but mighty squad led by two athletes who embody both experience and promise: Tobi Amusan and Kayinsola Ajayi.
Amusan, the world record-holding hurdler, is Nigeria’s brightest star, while Ajayi, the rising sprint sensation, has already carved his place in history by becoming the first Nigerian man in 18 years to reach a 100m final at the World Championships. Together with long jump powerhouse Ese Brume, they are spearheading a 15-man Nigerian team competing in 11 events, determined to turn expectations into podium finishes.
The Stars to Watch
Tobi Amusan: A world record holder and Olympic champion, Amusan has made consistency her trademark. She enters Tokyo as Nigeria’s strongest medal contender in the hurdles, aiming to defend her legacy and perhaps add another global medal to her name.
Kayinsola Ajayi: The sprint revelation, Ajayi reached the 100m final and finished 6th—already a historic feat for Nigerian men’s sprinting. For many, his run represents the rebirth of Nigeria’s presence in global sprinting.
Ese Brume: Nigeria’s long jump queen, Brume is no stranger to the podium. Known for her big-match mentality, she will aim to leap into medal contention once again.
Nigeria’s Compact Squad
Unlike countries that send large contingents, Nigeria arrives in Tokyo with a lean but focused team of 15 athletes. According to sports authorities, the strategy is simple: combine the medal-winning experience of established stars with the hunger of younger talents to deliver results across 11 events.
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The squad’s composition reflects Nigeria’s growing emphasis on quality over quantity—bringing in athletes who are more likely to challenge for medals rather than simply participate.
The Stakes
Every performance in Tokyo carries weight. For Amusan, it is about defending her dominance. For Brume, it is a chance to once again remind the world of her long jump prowess. And for Ajayi, it is proof that Nigeria’s men’s sprinting is back in contention.
Beyond individual triumphs, however, lies a bigger picture: national pride. Nigerians across the world are watching closely, desperate for success stories amid wider social and economic struggles at home. A medal would not only crown an athlete—it would lift the morale of a nation.
The Road To Tokyo
As the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo begins, Nigeria’s athletes carry more than spikes and tracksuits—they carry the weight of expectation. With Amusan, Ajayi, and Brume leading the charge, the world is watching to see if the green-white-green will once again rise on the global stage. For Team Nigeria, this isn’t just another competition—it is the pursuit of history.
