The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has postponed the start of the 2026 Commonwealth Games National Trials by one day to accommodate athletes affected by severe weather disruptions in the United States.
The trials, initially scheduled to hold from June 20 to June 22 at the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) Sports Complex in Lagos, will now take place from June 21 to June 23 at the same venue.
The decision was reached following an emergency meeting of the AFN Board, chaired by the federation’s president, Chief Tonobok Okowa, in Lagos.
According to the federation, the adjustment became necessary after several Nigerian athletes based in the United States were unable to travel as planned due to widespread flight cancellations caused by heavy rainfall, severe storms, and flash flooding across parts of the country, including Atlanta and Montgomery, Alabama.
Many of the affected athletes appealed to the federation for additional time to enable them to arrive in Nigeria and compete in the crucial trials, which will play a key role in determining Team Nigeria’s selection for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Following deliberations, the AFN resolved to shift the competition by one day, describing the move as a decision taken in the best interest of all stakeholders, particularly the athletes whose travel plans were disrupted by the adverse weather conditions.
The federation noted that the affected athletes remain committed to representing Nigeria and are making every effort to arrive in time for the competition.
The AFN also appealed for understanding from athletes who have already arrived in Lagos, urging them to bear with the situation while wishing their colleagues safe and smooth journeys. The national trials are expected to attract some of Nigeria’s leading track and field athletes as they compete for places on Team Nigeria for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
