By Tony Nezianya
Ànnaba, Algeria, July 28, 2025—The city evokes a deep sense of history and nostalgia for the nation’s sporting heritage as Nigeria’s track and field athletes prepare to compete in Annaba, Algeria.
This is not the first time Nigerian athletes have showcased their talents in Annaba, in this historic stadium opened on May 19, 1956, about 69 years ago.
Veteran athletes like Innocent Egbunike, Henry Amike, and Yusuf Alli were in the same city in 1984 for the African senior Championships.
“We competed as far back as 1984, ” recalls Amike in a telephone interview.
Yusuf Alli, a former captain of the “National Team,” as it was known before being renamed Team Nigeria, corroborates his account.
“That was a glorious era of athletics,” Amike added, a sentiment shared by figures like Paa Fashola, a member of the former Amateur Athletics Association of Nigeria.
Recalling their specific events, Alli said Amike mentioned that Amike competed in the 300 metres Hurdles and Egbunike in the 300 metres.”
Alli remembers the unique preparation for that championship, noting that they trained in London before joining the main team in Annaba.
Looking ahead to the new generation of athletes, the veterans offered a warm message of encouragement for the current team:
“Please convey my positive, warm feelings to the tram.
According to him, we look forward to their anticipated impressive showings when athletics begin on August 1, 2025.”
Alli also notes that the 300-metre race was popular even in Europe but never included in the Olympic programme.
Egbunike, who was also said to have set an African record then, has yet to respond to a call for his bit of 9fbtge historic moment.
