Nigerian sprint prodigy Israel Okon says he is aiming to make history by reaching the 100m final at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, where he will make his senior debut for Nigeria.
The 18-year-old national champion, who won the 100m title at the 2025 Nigerian Athletics Championships in Lagos with a personal best of 10.04s, described competing on the global stage as a dream come true.
“Representing Nigeria for the first time at the senior level in the 100m at the World Championships is a huge milestone for me. Wearing the green and white on the world stage means everything—it shows that hard work, dedication, and belief really do pay off,” Okon told newsmen.
Despite facing some of the world’s fastest sprinters, Okon has set his sights on becoming the youngest finalist in the men’s 100m.
“My goal is to make it to the final and to be the youngest athlete in that final. I know it won’t be easy, but I believe in myself and I’m ready to give it everything I’ve got. I want to inspire others to chase their dreams and never stop believing,” he added.
Okon has enjoyed a breakout season, equalling the world U-20 indoor 60m record with 6.51s in March at the Southeastern Conference Championships in Texas, before taking bronze at the NCAA Indoor Championships. He also played a key role in Nigeria’s 4x100m relay gold at the 2023 African Games in Accra.
He is part of Nigeria’s 15-man squad for Tokyo, which also features Tobi Amusan and Ese Brume, as the team contests 11 events at the championships starting September 13 at the Japan National Stadium.
About the Author
