The Athletics Federation of Nigeria has cast doubt on plans to host the 2025 National Trials at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, throwing preparations for the crucial World Championships qualifiers into confusion just days before the scheduled event.
The trials, originally set for July 31 to August 2, serve as the mandatory selection meet for Nigeria’s team to the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. However, the unresolved certification of Abeokuta’s tartan track by World Athletics has forced the AFN to reconsider the venue.
AFN President Tonobok Okowa confirmed the uncertainty when pressed for details. “I cannot give concrete information because nobody is sure at this moment,” Okowa told our correspondent. “Everything depends on when and if the track certification will be approved.”
Despite successfully hosting the National Sports Festival in May and the recent African U-18/U-20 Championships, the Abeokuta facility still lacks World Athletics certification for senior international competitions. This technicality has compelled the federation to explore alternative venues, with Benin City and Asaba emerging as potential replacements.
A senior AFN official, speaking anonymously, revealed ongoing deliberations about relocating the event. “Abeokuta is no longer being considered due to the certification issues. The federation is weighing options between Benin and Asaba, considering both track standards and accessibility for athletes nationwide,” the source disclosed.
The last-minute uncertainty has left athletes and coaches in limbo, with no official communication from the AFN regarding possible date changes. The trials remain compulsory for all elite athletes, both home-based and overseas, with absence automatically disqualifying participants from Tokyo consideration unless medically exempt.
This development comes as a setback for Nigeria’s preparations for the World Championships, with athletes now facing potential logistical challenges and disrupted training plans. The AFN is expected to make an official announcement in coming days as the federation races against time to secure a suitable venue for the critical qualification event.
Stakeholders are calling for urgent resolution to prevent Nigeria’s top talents from missing the opportunity to compete on the global stage. The situation highlights ongoing infrastructure challenges in Nigerian athletics, even at premier venues that have recently hosted major competitions.
