Road to 2026 Winter Olympics: Nigeria’s Bobsled and Skeleton Federation Holds Trials

By Rosemary Ugiomoh

The athletes, team, board members and fans of Bobsled and Skeleton Federation of Nigeria gathered at the National Stadium, Surulere in Lagos on Saturday, August 23, 2025, for the highly anticipated Olympic trials. The event marked a crucial step towards determining the country’s representatives to the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics in 2026. The trials brought together top bobsled and skeleton athletes from across the country, all vying for a spot  in the national team.

Nigeria’s bobsled team made history in 2018 by becoming the first African team to qualify for the Winter Olympics. The team, consisting of Seun Adigun, Ngozi Onwumere, and Akuoma Omeoga,

This achievement marked a significant milestone for Nigeria in the winter sports and paved way for future generations.The Bobsled and Skeleton Federation of Nigeria has been working tirelessly to develop the sport in the country. The federation’s president, Dr. Solomon Ogba, highlighted the importance of the trials while briefing journalist , saying, “Gliding on steel, is powered by determination — bobsled isn’t just a sport, it’s a battle with gravity and speed.”

The athletes are one step closer to Olympic gold, and the trials are an opportunity for them to showcase their skills.

Some of the top athletes competing in the trials include: Khadijat Lawal Folawiyo–Skeleton Champion ,Ugochukwu Dickson — Brakeman Champion.

– Pertual Nwanna: Bobsled Driver and Champion
– Hammed Yusuf: Bobsled Driver and Champion,and others.

These athletes have been training hard ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics. Their performance in the trials shows the athletes preparedness.

The National Sports Commission and the Bobsled and Skeleton Federation of Nigeria are committed to supporting the athletes as they prepare for the Olympics.