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Nigeria’s leading shot put star, Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, is investing in the next generation of athletes, committing ₦950,000 in prize money to the men’s shot put competition at the Athletic Heat 10th Anniversary Meet.
The initiative will give the top four competitors a financial reward for their performances when the anniversary meet takes place on November 7 at the Yaba College of Technology Sports Complex in Lagos.
The sponsorship comes from Enekwechi, a two-time Olympian, African champion and African record holder, whose contribution is aimed at creating greater opportunities for athletes competing in the field events.
Under the arrangement, the winner will pocket ₦400,000, while the second-place finisher will receive ₦300,000.
Third place attracts ₦150,000, with the fourth-place athlete earning ₦100,000.
The gesture for Enekwechi goes beyond putting money into a competition. The Nigerian international sees it as an opportunity to support a sport that has given him so much and encourage young athletes who may be waiting for their breakthrough.
“I love my people, I love my sport, and I love my country. I just feel that, given my position, it’s a great opportunity to give back to young people, and hopefully, it inspires young talent that hasn’t had a chance. If I can help and called to the sport, then I’m glad to do so,” he said.
Athletic Heat CEO Ese Oguma welcomed the sponsorship, describing the financial commitment as a major boost for the competition and its participants.
Oguma disclosed that he was taken aback by the scale of Enekwechi’s offer, particularly the ₦400,000 reward for the eventual winner.
“I was elated when Chukwuebuka said he will support with almost a million naira in cash prize, with first prize going home with 400k naira. This has never happened in the history of Nigerian athletes and I’m happy this meet is able to give field athletes that opportunity to smile to the bank,” he said.
The Athletic Heat boss also praised the Nigerian record holder for extending his influence beyond his performances on the track and into the development of upcoming competitors.
“Chukwuebuka has been a face when it comes to the men’s throws and it’s amazing to see what he is doing to support the next generation,” Oguma added.
The partnership places the spotlight on the role established athletes can play in strengthening grassroots competition, especially in disciplines that do not always attract the same attention as track events.
Enekwechi has also called on interested athletes to sign up for the meet through A3Tickets, while wishing competitors the best of luck.
The Athletic Heat 10th Anniversary Meet is scheduled for Saturday, November 7, 2026, at the Yaba College of Technology Sports Complex, Lagos. Registration closes on October 24, 2026.
With ₦950,000 available in the men’s shot put alone, the competition offers athletes more than an opportunity to mark the occasion, it gives them a substantial financial incentive to deliver their best performances.
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