Amusan Shines with Fifth National Title as Chioma Nweke, Onyah Claim Breakthrough Wins

World record holder, Tobi Amusan reaffirmed her dominance in the women’s 100m hurdles by clinching her fifth national title at the 2025 Athletics Federation of Nigeria National Trials, held at the Yaba College of Technology Sports Complex, Lagos.

The 28-year-old sprinted to victory with an impressive time of 12.57 seconds, finishing well ahead of Adaobi Tabugbo (13.03s) and Faith Osamuyi (13.36s), as she continued her build-up to the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo this September.

In the men’s 400m final, Gafar Badmus emerged victorious with a winning time of 45.71s, outpacing Ezekiel Asuquo (46.29s) and David Akhalu (46.91s) to secure the national title.

The women’s 400m final delivered an unexpected twist, as multiple-time champion Patience Okon-George was disqualified. Rising star and African U-20 champion, Favour Onyah, capitalised on the opportunity to claim gold in 52.69s, ahead of Opeyemi Deborah Oke and Anita Enaruna, who placed second and third respectively.

Another breakout moment came in the women’s 100m sprint. Chioma Nweke, also an African U-20 champion, stormed to her first-ever national title in 11.27s, dethroning defending champion Olayinka Olajide (11.39s), while Iyanuoluwa Bada secured third place with a time of 11.45s.

Reacting to her victory, she said; “I feel very amazing. It feels good to become a national champion.”
She added, “I have to go back and try to qualify for the Commonwealth Games next year.”