By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
Head Coach of Team Nigeria Athletics, Solomon Aliyu, has expressed confidence that the impressive performances recorded at the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) Commonwealth Games Trials are only a preview of what Nigerians should expect from the country’s athletes at the forthcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Aliyu, a former police officer and seasoned athletics coach, said the trials marked a successful first phase of Team Nigeria’s preparations, adding that the athletes are capable of producing even better performances on the international stage.
Speaking after the trials, the veteran coach praised the athletes for their efforts and predicted a stronger showing when the Games commence.
“What we saw at the AFN Commonwealth Games Trials is just the beginning,” Aliyu said. “At the Commonwealth Games, Nigerians should expect even better performances from our athletes. This is only the first phase, so watch out for what’s to come.”
The Team Nigeria coach also highlighted the emergence of promising young athletes, including Miracle Ezechukwu, Chidera Ezeakor and Chigozie Rosemary, describing them as the future of Nigerian athletics.
“Whether we like it or not, these young athletes are the champions of tomorrow. Without them, we won’t have anyone to represent the country in the future. We are doing our best to complement the tremendous work their personal coaches have already done in developing them,” he said.
Aliyu was equally full of praise for the athletes’ personal coaches, acknowledging their crucial role in preparing the competitors for national and international competitions.
“I’m very impressed and excited by what I’ve seen. As the head coach, I cannot take all the credit. The personal coaches have done an excellent job in preparing these athletes, and they deserve to be commended for their efforts,” he added.
Looking ahead to Glasgow, Aliyu stressed that continued support and development programmes would be vital to sustaining the progress recorded so far.
“We still have a lot of work to do to maintain this momentum. The impressive performances we’re seeing today are a result of the unwavering support from the leadership of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria and the National Sports Commission. Their collaboration is providing the environment athletics needs to thrive, and we appreciate their commitment,” he said.
The AFN Commonwealth Games Trials served as a key platform for assessing athletes ahead of Team Nigeria’s campaign at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, with several emerging stars and established performers showcasing their readiness for international competition.
