Tobi Amusan Blazes to Fifth National Hurdles Crown with Lightning-Fast 12.57s Finish in Lagos

Nigerian sprint queen and global athletics sensation, Tobi Amusan, once again proved she is a force to be reckoned with after storming to victory in the women’s 100m hurdles at the 2025 national trials in Lagos. The reigning Commonwealth champion clocked an impressive 12.57 seconds to clinch her fifth national title, sending the crowd at the Yaba College of Technology Stadium into a frenzy as she dominated the track with unmatched confidence, grace, and speed.

Amusan, who has consistently flown the green and white flag high on international stages, left her competitors in the dust with a performance that not only underlined her national dominance but also sent a bold message ahead of the World Championships later this year. Her electrifying finish—clean, composed, and powerful—was met with thunderous applause as thousands of spectators, fellow athletes, coaches, and media representatives watched her glide over each hurdle with mechanical precision.

It was another masterclass in sprint hurdling from the 27-year-old, who has become a household name in Nigerian sports following her historic gold medal and world record at the 2022 World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon. While her 12.57 seconds on Sunday fell short of that world-beating 12.12s record, it was still the fastest time recorded in this year’s national trials and a clear statement that Amusan is back in world-class form.

The five-time national champion looked relaxed as she stepped onto the track, her eyes focused, her nerves calm, and her aura exuding the poise of a seasoned athlete. Dressed in her signature green kit, she received a loud ovation from the crowd who had waited eagerly all day to witness the woman many now regard as the “Queen of Nigerian Track.” The gun went off, and within seconds, it was evident no one else in the lineup could challenge her pace. Her acceleration out of the blocks was crisp, her rhythm across the barriers was smooth, and her finish was ferocious.

After the race, an emotional Amusan dedicated the win to her late father, who she often credits for his support and belief in her career. “Every time I step on the track, I carry my father’s memory with me. He believed in me when no one else did. This title is for him and for every young Nigerian girl who dreams of greatness,” she said in her post-race interview, her voice breaking slightly as fans chanted her name.

In a competition filled with rising talents and future stars, Amusan's victory wasn’t just about maintaining her crown—it was about reminding the nation and the world that she remains one of the most dangerous hurdlers alive. Among those who shared the podium with her were new names who are gradually making waves in the local scene, but it was clear from the times that Amusan still holds a wide margin in class and experience.

Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) officials praised her consistency and leadership, describing her as a beacon of hope for the next generation. “Tobi has done it again. She is not just winning titles; she is inspiring an entire generation. Her professionalism, discipline, and determination are what every young athlete should aspire to,” said AFN Technical Director, Sunday Adeleye.

The event, held under tight security and amidst great fanfare, also saw appearances from former track greats, sports administrators, and government officials, all eager to witness the woman who has become the pride of Nigerian athletics. With over 10,000 spectators filling the stands, the atmosphere was electric, particularly during Amusan’s race, which was clearly the highlight of the trials.

This year’s trials are especially significant, as they serve as qualifiers for the upcoming World Championships in Tokyo and the Paris 2025 African Games. Amusan’s performance not only earned her a spot on the national team but further affirmed her readiness to reclaim her place at the top of global hurdling, especially after the mixed reactions and controversies that trailed her in 2023 over missed anti-doping whereabouts tests—a situation she later cleared and bounced back from with remarkable grit.

Now with five national titles in her trophy cabinet, Amusan joins the elite circle of Nigerian athletes who have sustained long-term dominance in their events, drawing comparisons to legends like Mary Onyali and Chioma Ajunwa. But if her words are anything to go by, the journey is far from over. “I’m just getting started,” she smiled at the press conference. “There’s more to come. I want to keep improving, keep inspiring, and keep breaking barriers—on and off the track.”

Social media erupted immediately after her win, with hashtags like #TobiAmusan and #NaijaPride trending across Nigerian Twitter and Instagram. Celebrities, politicians, fans, and fellow athletes poured in their congratulations, celebrating not just her victory but the spirit of excellence she represents. Among the most viral posts was one from Grammy-winning musician Burna Boy who posted a photo of Amusan with the caption: “Na who dey run things again? Our queen, our GOAT. No competition.”

Amusan’s coach, Lacena Golding-Clarke, also lauded her performance, describing it as a testament to her relentless work ethic. “Tobi is obsessed with perfection. Every hurdle she clears is a result of hundreds of hours of focused training. We’ve worked hard to get her back to this level, and this victory shows she’s where she needs to be,” she said.

As the curtain falls on the 2025 national trials, one name echoes louder than the rest—Tobi Amusan. Her 12.57-second sprint was more than just a race. It was a declaration, a reminder, and perhaps a warning to the rest of the world that Nigeria’s golden girl is not slowing down any time soon.

With Paris, Tokyo, and possibly another world record in her sights, Amusan stands not just as Nigeria’s top hurdler but as a symbol of resilience, passion, and the unwavering pursuit of greatness. As the sun set over the Lagos skyline, one thing was certain—Tobi Amusan had once again leapt over doubt, crushed the competition, and soared into yet another chapter of athletic history.