ACCRA, Ghana – Day 2 of the 24th African Athletics Championships witnessed a commanding performance by Nigeria, highlighted by a signature victory from Tobi Amusan in the women’s 100m hurdles and strong team results across track and field at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium.
Amusan Reigns Supreme in the 100m Hurdles
In the marquee event of the day, world record holder Tobi Amusan clinched Nigeria’s first gold medal of the championships with a commanding win in the women’s 100m hurdles final. Clocking 12.83 seconds in a race led from gun to tape, Amusan secured her third consecutive African title in the event.
Speaking after her victory, Amusan reflected on her journey and drive:
“Beyond grateful to God, my team, supporters, and everyone who continues to believe in me through every season. Historic feeling. Still hungry for more.”
Her compatriot Adaobi Tabugbo ensured a Nigerian presence on the podium as she captured the bronze medal (13.26), sandwiched around Zimbabwe’s Ashley Miller (silver).
Nigeria’s Medal Machine Rolls On
Team Nigeria’s success wasn’t limited to hurdles. Across Day 2, they extended their medal tally with solid performances in multiple events:
Mixed 4x400m Relay: The quartet of Ezekiel Asuquo, Toheebat Jimoh, Victor Sampson and Patience Okon-George took gold with a strong 3:16.41 finish.
Women’s 100m: Rosemary Chukwuma claimed silver, clocking 11.488s, narrowly finishing behind Cameroon’s Herve Kole Etame.
Women’s Hammer Throw: Sade Olatoye fired a 69.60m best for silver.
Women’s Discus Throw: Divine Oladipo earned silver (55.37m), while Obiageri Amaechi added bronze (53.23m).
Men’s 100m: Chidera Ezeakor clocked 10.318s for bronze.
After two days of competition, Nigeria’s haul stood impressively at eight medals — two gold, three silver and three bronze — asserting themselves among the early pace-setters in Accra.
Luvo Manyonga’s Long Jump Legacy Continues
Also on Day 2, South African veteran Luvo Manyonga continued his storied career with a commanding performance in the men’s long jump, adding yet another gold medal to his continental résumé. The former World and Commonwealth champion, and Olympic silver medallist, asserted his comeback in style, showing he remains a force in horizontal jumps.
With competition continuing through May 17, other marquee events including the sprint finals, middle distance races and remaining field finals promise to reshape the medal standings in what has already been an exciting and unpredictable championship.
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