It’s a massive week for Nigerian sports! From record-breaking feats on the track in France to a major shift in the NPFL standings, here are the five latest sports news in Nigeria as of February 23, 2026.
1. Athletics: Jared Ejiasian Smashes U-18 World Record
Nigeria has a new teenage sensation on the global stage. 16-year-old Jared Ejiasian made history this weekend at the French Championships in Val-de-Reuil. Competing in the 60m hurdles, Ejiasian clocked a blistering 7.43 seconds, eclipsing the previous world U-18 best of 7.48 set by Sasha Zhoya in 2019. While there is talk of interest from the French federation, Ejiasian is currently registered under the Nigerian flag, sparking hope for a new golden era in Nigerian hurdles.
2. NPFL: Ikorodu City Stays Top as Remo Stars Hit Rock Bottom
The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title race and relegation scrap both took dramatic turns during Matchday 27.
The Leaders: Ikorodu City FC maintained their spot at the top of the table after a gritty 1-1 draw against Bayelsa United.
The Shock: Defending champions Remo Stars have officially dropped to the bottom of the table (20th place) after a 2-1 loss to Wikki Tourists.
The Comeback: Nasarawa United (The Solid Miners) moved up to 3rd place after a 1-0 win over Bendel Insurance, putting them just one point behind the leaders.
3. Super Eagles: March Madness in Jordan Confirmed
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially confirmed that the Super Eagles will participate in a Four-Nation Invitational Tournament in Amman, Jordan, during the March FIFA window.
The Schedule: Nigeria will face Iran on March 27 and tournament hosts Jordan on March 31.
The Context: These matches serve as vital preparation while the nation still awaits a final FIFA ruling regarding the protest against DR Congo’s player eligibility during the World Cup playoffs.
4. Ademola Lookman’s Red-Hot Start at Atlético Madrid
Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman is proving to be worth every penny of his £30.3 million transfer fee. Since joining Atlético Madrid from Atalanta on February 1st, Lookman has already netted four goals in six appearances. His latest strike helped Simeone’s side maintain their push in La Liga, making him the most in-form Nigerian player in Europe’s "Big Five" leagues right now.
5. Grassroots: Niger Delta Games 2026 Officially Opens
The 2nd Niger Delta Games are currently underway in Edo State, with President Bola Tinubu declaring the event open as a "tool for unity and empowerment."
Early Highlights: Ejiro Peters of Team Delta stole the spotlight by winning the Women’s 100m gold in 11.58 seconds.
The Goal: The games, which run until February 27, aim to scout fresh talent and curb age-cheating and poaching in Nigerian sports.