Team Nigeria Athletics have stepped up preparations for the forthcoming Commonwealth Games.
The camp, which brings together a blend of seasoned campaigners and promising young talents, has already begun to take shape with rigorous training sessions at the Stephen Keshi Stadium.
Coaches and technical officials have expressed satisfaction with the athletes’ commitment, noting that the early signs point to a productive build-up.
The head coach of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Solomon Aliyu, has expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far in the first phase of preparations for the forthcoming Commonwealth Games camp in Asaba.
Aliyu revealed that the federation is deliberately maintaining focus as athletes begin their build-up in earnest.
“We don’t want to be distracted. So far, so good. The camp is in three phases and this is the first phase of the camp,” he said.
Now in week two of the first phase, the focus has shifted from general conditioning to more event-specific drills, as sprinters, jumpers, throwers and hurdles intensify their routines.
Morning sessions are largely dedicated to endurance and strength work, while evenings feature technical refinement and speed training.
Camp officials say the six-week programme is designed to lay a solid foundation before the team transitions into more competitive simulations and international exposure ahead of the Games.
“The response from the athletes has been encouraging,” one of the coaches remarked. “We are building gradually. The first two weeks are critical for fitness and team bonding, and the athletes have shown discipline and hunger.”
Asaba’s conducive weather and world-class facilities have also been credited for creating the right environment for preparation.
The athletes have settled into camp life, with emphasis placed not only on physical readiness but also on nutrition, recovery and mental strength.
(Complete Sports)
