The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has unveiled a 26-man squad for the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) Region II Senior Championships, scheduled for Monday and Tuesday at the University of Ghana Sports Complex, Legon, Accra.

The Nigerian contingent, led by Technical Director Gabriel Okon and National Head Coach Solomon Aliyu, will compete in 20 track and field events as they bid to defend the title won last year.

Veteran 400m Patience Okon-George headlines the team, which departs Lagos on Saturday. She will anchor a strong 400m squad that also includes Gafari Badmus, Ezekiel Asuquo, Victor Sampson, Favour Onyah, Opeyemi Oke and Anita Enaruna.

Nigeria’s sprint and relay strength remains formidable. In the men’s 100m/200m and 4x100m, Olaolu Olatunde, James Taiwo Emmanuel, Abdulgafar Audu and Chidera Nzeakor will carry the baton, while the women’s lineup features Chioma Nweke, Olayinka Olajide, Iyanuoluwa Bada and Maria Thompson.

The hurdles will see US-based Nnamdi Onwaeze and Musa Wisdom Great in the men’s 110m event, while Comfort Anietie James will fly the flag in the women’s 800m as the country’s sole middle-distance entrant.

Field events are led by Paris Olympics finalist Prestina Ochonogor in the women’s long jump, with Charles Godfred competing in the men’s category. Other names include Blessing Oluwayemi (triple jump), Adams Kure (javelin), Dickson Ugochukwu (shot put), Treasure Omosiuwe (high jump) and Victoria Kparika (women’s javelin).

AFN President and CAA Region II chief, Chief Tonobok Okowa, congratulated the athletes and urged them to deliver another strong showing.

“The Federation and the country expect nothing short of a great performance that will see Nigeria defend the title won last year,” Okowa said.

Nigeria dominated the 2024 edition, topping the medals table with 13 gold, four silver and one bronze from a 22-athlete squad. With an even larger contingent this year, expectations are high for another commanding performance in Accra.