By TUNMISE OMOSOFE AND OLANREWAJU AKOJEDE

Nigeria’s leading shot put athlete, Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, has targeted a Commonwealth Games medal after dominating the national trials.

Enekwechi produced a winning throw of 21.46m at the 2026 Commonwealth Games National Athletics Trials held in Lagos on Monday.

The 33-year-old said he was determined to represent Nigeria strongly at the global competition.

“I want to walk away with a medal. Nigeria wants a medal and if I can make Nigeria proud, that would be the best,” he said.

He expressed confidence that a throw between 21m and 22m could secure a podium finish.

Enekwechi described the Commonwealth Games as a major platform to showcase Nigeria’s athletics strength.

He added that preparations would continue immediately with international competitions ahead of the Games.

The shot put star listed the Prefontaine Classic, Hungary’s Gold-level meet and Memphis Silver-level event among his next targets.

He stressed the importance of recovery, consistency and following his coach’s instructions to maintain top form.

Meanwhile, newly crowned women’s 100m champion Blessing Ogundiran celebrated her national title success.

Ogundiran defeated strong competitors, including Miracle Oluebube, to claim victory at the trials.

The sprinter attributed her achievement to discipline and strict compliance with her coach’s guidance.

“I stayed calm on the blocks and focused on executing my race plan,” she said.

She revealed that a recent flight cancellation made travelling difficult before the competition.

Ogundiran, who recently ran a personal best of 10.98 seconds, said she was excited by her progress.

She expressed optimism that improved training would enhance her Commonwealth Games chances.

Delta State Athletics Association Chairman Malik Ikpokpo called for increased investment in athletics.

Ikpokpo praised the National Sports Commission for organising the trials and promoting talent discovery.

He said regular competitions were essential for identifying athletes capable of representing Nigeria internationally.

“Investment and proper organisation will help athletics grow beyond its current level,” he said.

The administrator stressed that grassroots development remained crucial to producing future champions.

He cited talent discovered through the Niger+Delta Sports Festival as evidence of effective development programmes.

Ikpokpo expressed confidence that Nigerian athletes could win medals if properly prepared.

He urged stronger collaboration among administrators, coaches, governments and sponsors to sustain progress. (NAN)