Samuel Ogazi produced a stunning performance to win Nigeria’s first-ever gold medal in the men’s 400 metres at the Commonwealth Games, while Ella Onojuvwevwo added a bronze medal in the women’s event to boost the country’s medal haul in Glasgow.
The 20-year-old Ogazi crossed the finish line in 44.25 seconds at Scotstoun Stadium on Saturday, missing the Commonwealth Games record by just one-hundredth of a second. Grenada’s Kirani James set the record of 44.24 seconds in 2014.
The victory marks a historic milestone for Nigeria, with Sunday Bada’s bronze medal in 1994 previously standing as the country’s best finish in the men’s 400m at the Games.
Entering the final as the world’s fastest man over the distance in 2026, Ogazi was drawn in lane five and faced a strong challenge from Trinidad and Tobago’s Jereem Richards during the opening 200 metres.
However, the Nigerian unleashed a powerful finish over the final 150 metres to pull clear of the field and secure the gold medal.
Richards claimed silver, while South Africa’s Zakithi Nene settled for bronze.
Reacting to his victory, an emotional Ogazi said he was proud to deliver a historic achievement for Nigeria.
“It feels good. I’ve always told myself, ‘Samuel, you have to put Nigeria on the map.’”
He added:
“I feel like I am ready for anything right now. I am ready for anybody.”
Shortly after Ogazi’s triumph, Ella Onojuvwevwo delivered another podium finish for Team Nigeria by winning bronze in the women’s 400 metres.
She clocked 51.00 seconds to finish behind Jamaica’s Dejaene Oakley, who won gold, and Barbados’ Sada Williams, who claimed silver.
Onojuvwevwo’s achievement ended Nigeria’s nearly three-decade wait for a medal in the women’s 400 metres at the Commonwealth Games.
She credited the support she received from Nigerians for inspiring her performance.
“I am really happy. I got a lot of support from back home, from my parents, from my coach, from my teammates, and from everybody in Nigeria. They believe in me, and thanks to them for everything.”
The two medals further strengthened Team Nigeria’s campaign at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, with the country continuing to build momentum across athletics, weightlifting and para powerlifting.