Nigeria’s Samuel Ogazi made history on Friday night by winning the men’s 400 metres at the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships — ending a 26-year wait for a Nigerian champion in the event.
Running for the University of Alabama, the 20-year-old delivered a composed and explosive race at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon, crossing the line in 44.84 seconds — the only sub-45-second time in the final.
The win marked a breakthrough for Ogazi, who finished second in last year’s championship. His gold medal performance secured his first NCAA title and reaffirmed his reputation as one of Nigeria’s most promising young athletes.
Samuel Ogazi at the 2024 Olympic Games. Photo Credit: Getty Images
William Jones (University of Southern California) took silver in 45.53 seconds, while Jordan Pierre of Arkansas-Pine Bluff claimed bronze in 45.75. Texas Tech’s DeSean Boyce and Duke’s Joseph Taylor completed the top five.
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Ogazi had signaled his intent earlier in the week with a dominant run in the semi-finals, posting 44.77 seconds — the fastest qualifying time. Known for his fluid stride and strong finishing kick, Ogazi controlled the final from the back straight, pulling ahead in the final 100 metres.
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His performance broke a long-standing drought for Nigeria in the 400 metres at the NCAA level, dating back to 1999. He became the first Nigerian man to win the title since then.
