The final day of the 2024 Athletics Federation of Nigeria National Trials saw unexpected victories in the men’s and women’s 400m finals as the University of Michigan athlete, Dubem Amene, captured the men’s title, while Esther Joseph triumphed in a fiercely competitive women’s final on Tuesday.
The women’s 400m final captivated the audience first, with African Games silver medallist Joseph clocking in at 51.70s to secure her inaugural national title.
She fended off a late surge from Patience Okon-George, who finished a close second in 51.76s, and Imaobong Nse-Uko, who took third with a season-best of 52.04s.
Joseph’s victory demonstrated her growing prominence in the 400m event, as she overcame a strong lineup that included Omolara Ogunmakinju.
Despite Okon-George entering the final as the favorite, having posted the fastest time in the heats on Day 1, Joseph’s powerful finish in the outside lane secured her the win.
In the men’s 400m final, Amene delivered another electrifying performance, winning his first national title with a time of 45.44s.
He outpaced Emmanuel Ojeli, who finished second with a season-best 45.69s, and his brother Dubem Nwachukwu, who came third with a season-best 45.70s.
Amene was not initially a frontrunner but surged ahead on the home straight, showcasing remarkable acceleration to claim the men’s 400m crown from Chidi Okezie, the 2023 champion.
Okezie, who had qualified for the Olympics, was unable to defend his title against Amene’s late charge.
Ojeli, the 2019 titleholder and second-fastest qualifier, ran his second-fastest 400m in history during the final, securing the runner-up spot.
In the men’s 200m final, Sunday Israel Okon delivered a surprising victory, setting a new personal best of 20.80s.
He bested Alaba Akintola, who finished second with a time of 20.81s, and Consider Ekanem, who took third in 20.88s.
The women’s 200m final saw Precious Nzeakor achieve a new personal best of 23.14s to win the title. She edged out Olayinka Olajide, who recorded a personal best of 23.17s for second place, while Ella Onojuvwevwo secured third in 23.73s.
