Nigeria’s participation in the 2025 World Athletics Indoor Championships suffered a major setback as all 10 athletes were notably absent from competition start lists on the opening day Friday, March 14, following unresolved visa issues.
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) had initially registered a contingent for six events, including the men’s 400m, shot put, and 4x400m relay, as well as the women’s 60m, high jump, and long jump. However, critical visa delays prevented athletes from traveling to Nanjing, forcing them to miss scheduled events.
Among the impacted competitors was Ezekiel Nathaniel, Africa’s 400m indoor record holder, who was excluded from the men’s 400m heats. Success Umukoro, Nigeria’s sole entrant in the women’s 60m, was also absent from her event’s heats. Other affected athletes included shot putter Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, high jumper Temitope Adeshina, and Paris Olympics finalist Prestina Ochonogor.
Sources indicate the AFN made intensive efforts to resolve the logistical challenges, which arose amid conflicts with NCAA schedules for several athletes. However, the federation failed to secure visas in time for the competition’s start.
As of Saturday, March 15, uncertainty remains over whether Enekwechi, reportedly already in China, will compete in Sunday’s men’s shot put final. Nigeria’s men’s 4x400m relay team, listed for Sunday’s program, could also be in doubt if visa approvals are further delayed.
Azu Claims Dramatic 60m Gold Amid Chaotic Final
Elsewhere, Great Britain’s Jeremiah Azu seized gold in a chaotic men’s 60m final Friday, clocking 6.49 seconds to match his personal best. The race saw Puerto Rico’s Eloy Benitez fall mid-sprint and American Ronnie Baker pull up injured near the finish line, clearing the path for Azu’s victory.
The World Indoor Championships conclude Sunday, March 16, with Nigerian hopes now resting on Enekwechi and the relay team’s potential last-minute participation.
