AFN Applauds Nigerian Athletes for Outstanding Performance at Premium Trust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has congratulated Nigerian athletes for their remarkable performance at the just concluded Premium Trust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon.

The event, which was held on Saturday, saw over 3,000 athletes from around the world converge on Abuja to showcase their skills on the global stage.

“I want to Congratulate the over 3,000 athletes who came out to flex their ability on the global stage, every one of us is a winner for having the bravery to show up at the start line,” said Ms. Akuchukwu Aghazu, 2nd Vice President of AFN.

“Worthy of note is Adamu Shehu who finished fourth overall and the first Nigerian to cross the finish line with a time of 1:08:25:49 on such a tough course showing that we are on track to reckon with globally.”

The AFN is particularly proud of Nigeria’s duo of Shambor Blessing and Akusho Lydia who finished second and third in the women’s category, respectively.

“This historic feat is an indication that AFN’s long distance running blueprint for shaping and nurturing local talents for international podium finishes is timely,” Ms. Aghazu said.

The 2nd Vice President also commended Nilayo Sports Management Limited and Premium Trust Bank for providing such a platform for young distance runners to showcase their talents.

“This is not just another race, it has an international label, a World Athletics Bronze label! Thanks and congratulations to the organizers, Nilayo Sports Management and Premium Trust Bank for becoming the first sole sponsor of an international road running event in West Africa.”

Ms. Aghazu emphasized the importance of synergy between the private and public sectors to grow athletics in Nigeria.

“This shows the importance of synergizing with the private sector, with this ecosystem athletics will thrive, more talents will be discovered and nurtured in line with global best practices so they can go toe to toe with their peers.”

“The AFN is committed to building on the success of the Premium Trust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon to make Nigeria a force to be reckoned with in distance running globally.

“We are on track to achieving our goals, and with the support of our partners, we will continue to nurture and develop local talents to achieve international success,” Ms. Aghazu said.