Enekwechi Leads 25-Man Nigerian Athletics Squad to 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games in Saudi Arabia

Nigeria’s athletics team for the 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games has been officially unveiled, with African champion and Commonwealth Games medallist Chukwuebuka Enekwechi headlining the 25-athlete contingent set to represent the nation in Saudi Arabia, according to the event’s official website.

The sixth edition of the Islamic Solidarity Games will run from November 7 to 21 at the Prince Faisal bin Fahd Sports City Stadium, a 22,000-capacity venue expected to host some of the continent’s finest athletes. Organised by the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association, the Games return to their regular four-year cycle after the 2021 Konya edition was delayed to 2022 due to the pandemic.

Nigeria’s record in athletics at the Games remains modest, with the country earning three silver and one bronze medal in 2017—the only edition it reached the podium in track and field. Across all sports, Nigeria has claimed 11 medals in the history of the competition.

Enekwechi, the African record holder in shot put, will lead Nigeria’s medal hunt, joined by fellow thrower Chioma Onyekwere-Lyons, a two-time African champion and Commonwealth gold medallist, who also holds the African women’s discus record. Their leadership and experience are expected to anchor a squad that mixes youth and experience across multiple disciplines.

In the men’s sprints, Olympic finalist Enoch Adegoke headlines a strong lineup alongside Chidera Ezeakor, James Emmanuel, and Caleb John (100m and 200m). Ezekiel Asuquo, David Akhalu, and Gafari Badmus will compete in the 400m, while Afoke Oshasha combines the long jump with sprint events. Wisdom Great Musa will contest the 110m hurdles, and Samuel Kure will represent Nigeria in the javelin.

The women’s team features Anita Enaruna and Chioma Nweke leading the sprint unit, supported by Iyanuoluwa Bada and Oluebube Ezechukwu. Comfort James will run in the 800m, while veteran Patience Okon George takes on the 400m.

In field events, Divine Oladipo joins Enekwechi in the shot put, Oyesade Olatoye returns in the hammer throw, and Victoria Kparika, a three-time national champion, will compete in the javelin alongside Temitope Ademola in the long jump. The discus lineup includes Obiageri Amaechi, Onyekwere-Lyons, and Maria Omokwe.

Speaking on Nigeria’s participation, Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, said the Games form part of the country’s broader Olympic development strategy as preparations intensify ahead of Los Angeles 2028.

> “The Islamic Solidarity Games present an excellent platform for Nigeria to showcase our athletic talent globally. This team reflects our renewed focus on long-term development, and we believe they have what it takes to excel,” Olopade stated.