ACCRA — World record holder Tobi Amusan spearheaded a gold-rush for Team Nigeria on Wednesday, storming to victory in the women’s 100m hurdles at the 24th African Athletics Championships. Her triumph at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium not only secured Nigeria’s first gold of the competition but also marked a historic “hat-trick” of continental hurdles titles for the superstar.
Amusan, who dominated her heat and semi-final with a blistering 12.82 seconds, maintained her clinical form in the final, clocking 12.83 seconds to finish comfortably ahead of Zimbabwe’s Ashley Miller. The victory adds to her legendary haul, which now includes three African Championship golds (2018, 2022, 2026) and three African Games titles.
In a moment that underscored the prestige of the achievement, the gold medal was presented to her by World Athletics President Sebastian Coe.
“I don’t know what the time is, but I got the win — that’s all that matters,” Amusan said following the race. “The goal is to get racing, and this is my season opener. I’m looking forward to the rest of the season.”
The hurdles final proved to be a double celebration for Nigeria as Adaobi Tabugbo claimed the bronze medal, marking her first individual senior podium finish for the nation.
The momentum carried into the evening session, where Team Nigeria clinched its second gold medal in the Mixed 4x400m Relay. The quartet of Ezekiel Asuquo, Toheebat Jimoh, Victor Sampson, and veteran anchor Patience Okon-George delivered a masterclass in teamwork, stopping the clock at 3 minutes 16.41 seconds to hold off a late charge from Botswana and Kenya.
In the short sprints, rising star Chidera Ezeakor announced his arrival on the senior stage by securing a bronze medal in the men’s 100m final with a time of 10.31 seconds. On the women’s side, Rosemary Chukwuma secured silver in a photo-finish with Cameroon’s Herverge Kole Etame, though the result remains subject to an official protest by Nigerian officials.
Nigeria’s success extended to the field events as well, with Sade Olatoye clinching silver in the women’s hammer throw with a best mark of 69.60 metres.
Divine Oladipo and Obiageri Amaechi opened Nigeria’s account on Day 1 with silver and bronze respectively in the women’s discus throw, marking a successful debut for Oladipo since her switch of allegiance from Great Britain.
As the championships continue through May 17, Team Nigeria sits high on the medal table, fuelled by a 45-member contingent that blends experienced world-beaters with hungry rising talents.
