By Eyere Ekuta
The Abuja Pre-Season Challenge 2026 delivered an exciting and inspiring showcase of athletic excellence, as athletes, coaches, and sports enthusiasts gathered at the Training Pitch of the MKO Abiola International Stadium, Abuja.
The competition, organized by Uniquestars Athletics Club in partnership with Pasich Furniture, and sanctioned by the Athletics Coaches Association of Nigeria (ACAN), Abuja Chapter, brought together emerging and experienced athletes in a vibrant display of speed, endurance, and determination.
The event featured both male and female athletes competing in, 100m, 400m, 800m, and Medley Relay races.
Participants competed for attractive cash prizes, with winners in individual events earning up to ₦30,000, while relay teams took home as much as ₦50,000.
From start to finish, the competition delivered high-energy performances, with thrilling finishes that kept spectators on their feet. One of the most memorable highlights of the day was the emotional final race of veteran athlete Smart Enoobong Mfon, who brought his 20-year career in long-distance track to a close.
Having begun his journey at the 2006 Gateway Games National Sports Festival with personal best of 1 minute 57 seconds, Smart chose this very moment, while still performing at a high level to step away from competitive athletics.
He finished second in the 800m race, a remarkable way to end his career.
In his words:
“It feels so good finishing without injury and finishing well with second position. I thank God.”
Looking ahead, he revealed his next chapter:
“I’ll be going into sports management and coaching.”
The event was graced by a distinguished personality, Mr. Samuel Onikeku, who serves as the Director of the Nigeria Customs Sports Department, and is also a former Technical Director of the Nigeria Athletics Federation as well as the Chairman of the ACAN Abuja Chapter.
His presence underscored the importance of strong leadership, collaboration, and institutional support in advancing athletics development in Nigeria.
The convener, Gerald Odeka a former international athlete turned coach, assistant coach with Uniquestars Athletics Academy, and representative of athletics coaches in Nigeria — expressed deep appreciation to sponsors and partners for making the event a success.
He particularly acknowledged the provision of prize money and incentives, noting that such support is crucial in motivating athletes.
When asked about his advice to the younger generation especially as his own children are now following in his footsteps he shared a powerful message:
“Keep your head up — it doesn’t come easy.”
Drawing from his journey as both an athlete and coach, he emphasized his commitment to improving the system:
“Having gone through the system myself, I want to fill the gaps and ensure the next generation goes higher than we did.”
A spectator and an athletics coach, Coach Haruna described the event as:
“It’s especially good for athletes who may not make it to national competitions. It gives them a chance to test themselves and stay motivated.”
He disclosed that the Chairman of ACAN Abuja also hinted at a brighter future for the sport, noting that:
Competitions like this are expected to become more frequent, possibly on a monthly basis.
The Abuja Pre-Season Challenge continues to serve as a vital platform for, Talent discover, Athlete preparation, Sports development, and Community engagement. It provides opportunities for athletes at all levels to compete, grow, and gain visibility.
The 2026 Abuja Pre-Season Challenge proved to be a resounding success — highlighting the depth of athletic talent in Nigeria while reinforcing the need for sustained investment in sports development.
As the tracks cooled and the cheers faded, one message remained clear:
This is more than just a race, it’s a platform, a dream, and a stepping stone for future champions.
