UNITED STATES — Nigerian sprint sensation Nathaniel Ezekiel has been crowned the 2025 NCAA Division I Men’s Outdoor Track & Field National Track Athlete of the Year, in recognition of a record-breaking season with Baylor University.
The accolade, announced on Tuesday, June 25, by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA), marks the culmination of an outstanding collegiate campaign for the 21-year-old athlete, who has steadily risen as one of Africa’s most promising talents in the 400m hurdles.
Ezekiel’s award comes after a stellar season that saw him post multiple NCAA-leading times, dominate conference championships, and finish the year undefeated in his signature event, the 400m hurdles. His performances were instrumental in securing points for Baylor at the national meet, where he also anchored the school’s 4x400m relay team to a podium finish.
Reacting to the news, Ezekiel expressed gratitude to his coaches, teammates, and supporters. “It’s an incredible honour to be recognised at this level. I give glory to God, and I’m proud to represent Nigeria and Baylor University,” he said.
Born and raised in Nigeria, Ezekiel began his athletic career as a junior national champion before securing a scholarship to study and compete in the U.S. His technical refinement and consistency have now placed him among the top global prospects ahead of the 2025 World Athletics Championships and Paris 2026 Olympic Games.
Baylor’s head coach, Michael Ford, hailed the athlete’s discipline and leadership, saying, “Nathaniel is not just a star on the track; he’s a role model off it. This award is well-deserved.”
Back home, the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has lauded his achievement, describing it as a “proud moment for the nation” and a major boost for Nigerian athletics on the international stage.
Ezekiel is expected to join Team Nigeria’s senior camp in Europe later this summer, ahead of major international competitions, where he will compete alongside other elite Nigerian athletes.