ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated Team Delta athletes for their impressive performances at the just-concluded Commonwealth Games National Trials in Lagos, with special commendation for sprint sensation Favour Ashe, who etched his name into the history books as Nigeria’s fastest man.
Ashe delivered a breathtaking performance in the men’s 100 metres, clocking a personal best of 9.93 seconds to win the national title and establish a new record as the fastest Nigerian ever to claim the championship. The Delta-born sprinter also became the fastest athlete to run the event on Nigerian soil.
The feat marked a significant milestone in Nigerian athletics and further cemented Ashe’s reputation as one of the country’s brightest sprint talents. Sponsored by the Delta State Government alongside other foreign-based athletes to compete at the championships, Ashe justified the confidence reposed in him after confidently predicting victory ahead of the competition.
The speedster first blazed to a time of 9.98 seconds in the semi-finals before lowering the mark to 9.93 seconds in the final to secure the national crown in spectacular fashion.
His latest achievement continues an impressive tradition of breaking the 10-second barrier whenever he wins the national title, having previously recorded 9.99 seconds to clinch his first championship in Benin City in 2022.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori described Ashe’s historic performance as a source of immense pride for Delta State and Nigeria, noting that it reflected the success of the state’s deliberate investment in sports development and athlete empowerment.
The governor also applauded other Team Delta athletes who excelled at the championships and contributed to the state’s growing dominance in athletics.
Veteran quarter-miler Patience Okon-George reaffirmed her class by winning the women’s 400 metres title in 51.87 seconds. The victory marked her fifth national championship title and her first since 2021, while Kudoro Taiwo finished second in the event.
In the men’s 400 metres, Johnson Tyler, who recently switched allegiance from the United States to Nigeria, powered to victory in 45.75 seconds. Team Delta’s Achakpoekiri Victory claimed the silver medal in 45.91 seconds, while Emmanuel Ojeli secured bronze with a time of 45.94 seconds.
Also shining for Team Delta was Divine Oladipo, who successfully defended her women’s shot put title with a throw of 16.90 metres, extending her unbeaten run at the Nigerian Championships.
Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining investment in sports and providing opportunities for athletes to thrive on national and international stages.
He expressed confidence that Team Delta would continue to produce world-class athletes capable of bringing honour and glory to both the state and the nation through their achievements.
