Nigeria celebrated another memorable day at the 2026 Commonwealth Games as Samuel Ogazi stormed to a historic gold medal in the men’s 400 metres, while Ella Onojuvwevwo added a bronze in the women’s race.
Competing at Scotstoun Stadium in Glasgow on Saturday, the 20-year-old Ogazi produced a stunning run to cross the finish line in 44.25 seconds, making history as the first Nigerian ever to win Commonwealth gold in the men’s 400m.
His winning time was just 0.01 seconds shy of the Games record set by Grenada’s Kirani James in 2014.
Before Ogazi’s triumph, Nigeria’s best performance in the event came in 1994 when the late Sunday Bada claimed bronze.
Ogazi’s victory marks a major breakthrough for Nigerian athletics and further confirms his status as one of the country’s brightest sprint talents.
Speaking after his historic win, the youngster could not hide his emotions.
“It feels really good,” he said.
“I’ve always told myself, ‘Samuel, you have to put Nigeria on the map.’
“I feel like I’m ready for anything right now. I’m ready for anybody.”
Moments later, fellow Nigerian Ella Onojuvwevwo delivered another medal after finishing third in the women’s 400m final.
She clocked 51.00 seconds to secure bronze behind Jamaica’s Dejaene Oakley, who won gold, and Barbados’ Sada Williams, who claimed silver.
Her achievement also ended a long wait for Nigeria, making her the country’s first medallist in the women’s 400m at the Commonwealth Games in almost three decades.
An emotional Onojuvwevwo dedicated the success to everyone who stood behind her.
“I’m really happy,” she said.
“I received so much support from back home, from my parents, my coach, my teammates and everyone in Nigeria. They believed in me, and I’m grateful to all of them.”
Nigeria’s athletics team continues to impress in Glasgow as the country’s medal tally keeps growing.
