Cash prize targets home-based stars in 100m, 200m, 400m, 1500m, 5000m, long jump, and javelin — with coaches also set for recognition.

Home-based athletes preparing for the Commonwealth Games Trials in Lagos next weekend have fresh motivation after Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) Second Vice President Akuchukwu Aghazu announced a N1.6 million performance-based reward scheme. The Ben Aghazu Prize for Excellence in Athletics, named in honour of her late father, will award N100,000 to any athlete who meets strict qualifying standards across fourteen events at the trials set for June 20–22 at the Yaba College of Technology complex.

The prize covers men’s and women’s categories in the 100m, 200m, 400m, 1500m and 5000m races as well as long jump and javelin throw. To claim the prize, male athletes must clock at least 10.60 seconds in the 100m or hit the tough benchmarks in their respective disciplines — including a demanding 81 metres in men’s javelin and a sharp 7.90 metres in men’s long jump. The women’s targets are just as fierce: from an entry standard of 11.55 seconds in the 100m to a leap of at least 6.50 metres in long jump.

Aghazu said the initiative was designed to reward Nigeria-based talents who reach international-standard performances on home soil. “The intention is to support and encourage our home-based athletes and outstanding coaches,” she stated while unveiling the scheme. In addition to cash incentives for athletes, one male and one female coach will be recognised with an Excellence in Athletics Award.

AFN President Chief Tonobok Okowa applauded the move: “I am excited by this thoughtful initiative from our Second Vice President, Aku Aghazu. This is the kind of support that motivates our home-based athletes to give their very best during these all-important Commonwealth Games Trials.” No comments from athletes or further details on selection criteria for coaches were available at press time.

The Commonwealth Games Trials run from June 20–22 in Lagos, serving as the final opportunity for Nigeria’s track and field hopefuls to earn a place at this summer’s Games. With cash rewards now up for grabs alongside national pride, all eyes are on Lagos next weekend as competition heats up among Nigeria’s rising athletics stars.

Source: https://punchng.com/afn-vp-pledges-n1-6m-reward-for-cwealth-games-trials/