Nigeria’s new men’s 100m champion, Favour Ashe, has set his sights on winning a medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, after reclaiming the national title at the 2026 trials in Lagos.
Ashe stormed to victory in the men’s 100m final on Tuesday, clinching his second national title, and reaffirming his status as one of Nigeria’s leading sprint prospects ahead of the Games.
The sprinter, who has endured mixed fortunes since emerging as one of the country’s brightest sprint talents, said the victory was a statement to doubters and a confidence boost ahead of the international season.
“I’ve made the statement here and I have more to make. This one is for people to feel that I still got it. The next one is going to silence the critics,” Ashe told Making of Champions after the race.
Following his triumph in Lagos, Ashe plans to compete in a series of meets in Europe as part of his preparations for the Commonwealth Games, which he has identified as his primary target this season.
“I will be out to Europe to have like two or three meets before the Commonwealth Games and that is my main target this season. Just a medal and I believe I can get a medal,” he said.
The Games will take place in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2, with Nigeria expected to name its final athletics contingent in the coming days
The national title marks a significant return to form for the sprinter, who believes the victory has restored his confidence ahead of the major championships.
“I just needed a win to give me motivation and I believe my confidence is high now.”
Ashe’s performance at the national trials has strengthened his case for selection to Team Nigeria for the Commonwealth Games, where he will hope to challenge some of the best sprinters from across the Commonwealth for a place on the podium.