By Chiemeka Ugwowo
Amusan Fires Nigeria To Glory In Accra
Team Nigeria continued its impressive campaign at the ongoing African Senior Athletics Championships in Accra with remarkable performances in sprint, hurdles, relay and field events as the country strengthened its position among Africa’s athletics powerhouses.
Nigeria’s biggest moment came through Tobi Amusan who successfully defended her women’s 100 metres hurdles title after racing to gold in 12.83 seconds, reaffirming her dominance on the African stage.
Compatriot Adaobi Tabugbo also mounted the podium after clinching bronze in the same event to give Nigeria a memorable outing in the hurdles race.
In the women’s 100 metres final, Rosemary Chukwuma sprinted to a silver medal finish, while Chidera Ezeakor earned bronze in the men’s 100 metres final.
Team Nigeria also struck gold in the mixed 4×400 metres relay as the quartet of Ezekiel Asuquo, Toheebat Jimoh, Victor Sampson and Patience Okon-George combined brilliantly to finish first in 3:16.41 ahead of Botswana and Kenya.
In the field events, Sade Olatoye secured silver in the women’s hammer throw with a best effort of 69.60 metres.
Nigeria’s men’s 4×100 metres relay team also boosted hopes of another podium finish after Favour Ashe, James Taiwo Emmanuel, Tejiri Godwin and Chidera Ezeakor stormed into the final by winning their heat in commanding fashion.
Reports from the championship indicate that Team Nigeria has already amassed eight medals after the opening days of competition, comprising two gold, three silver and three bronze medals.
