Team Nigeria’s athletes are making headlines at the ongoing Olympic Games in Paris. Ezekiel Nathaniel and Samuel Ogazi have both shattered longstanding records in their respective events, showcasing exceptional talent and determination.
Ezekiel Nathaniel has broken a 12-year-old record by qualifying for the semifinals of the men’s 400m hurdles event. Nathaniel finished second in heat 4 with a time of 48.32 seconds, earning an automatic qualification. This achievement marks the first time since Amaechi Morton at the London 2012 Olympics that a Nigerian athlete has reached this stage in the 400m hurdles.
In the men’s 400m event, Samuel Ogazi has set a new personal best of 44.50 seconds, finishing second behind USA’s Quincy Hall, who won the race in 44.28 seconds. Ogazi’s performance is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first time in 24 years that a Nigerian male quarter-miler has advanced to the 400m semifinals at the Olympics.
Looking ahead, Favour Ofili is set to compete in the semifinals of the women’s 200m on Monday evening, following her strong performance in the heats. Additionally, Udodi Onwuzurike will participate in round 1, heat 2 of the men’s 200m event.
