By Ben Efe 13.6.2026
Nigeria’s athletics horizon brightened up Friday with Samuel Ogazi and Kanyinsola Ajayi sparkling with record breaking performances.
Competing at the 2026 NCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Eugene, Oregon USA, Ogazi dug deep with the last pint of his blood energy after a slow start, to outclass the field by yards and setting a new collegiate record of 43.38 seconds, it also a new national record and the 4th fastest time in the history of the men’s 400m. Wayde van Niekerk of South Africa 43.03 seconds, Michael Johnson USA 43.18 secs, Butch Reynolds USA 43.29secs are the times ahead of Ogazi’s feat.
“It was a big work for me going to the last 50m. I felt like dying, but I had to keep going,” said Ogazi a student of the Alabama University.
“Coming to the race I knew in the back of my mind that I will come up with a fast time. Thanks be to God and my coach.”
Ajayi who gave Ogazi a big hug before his own race, was also heroic in the men’s 100m. He came up with a 9.72secs personal best and a new national record.
Both athletes are now expected to lead Nigeria’s charge for medals at the upcoming Commonwealth Games July in Glasgow Scotland.
“I’m happy with my race, I didn’t care, for me it was just run to the finish line.
“The win means a lot to me and to Nigerians, we are happy to make people proud and we will continue to keep the flag flying,” Ajayi who represents Auburn University said.