Jessica Oji Makes History As Nigeria’s First World U20 Field Event Champion

Jessica Oji has etched her name into Nigeria‘s athletics history after becoming the country’s first-ever athlete to win a world title in a field event at any level.

The historic feat came at the World Athletics U20 Championships in Oregon, where Oji claimed the women’s shot put gold medal with a winning throw of 18.08 metres.

According to a post by Making of Champions on X, Oji’s victory marks the first time a Nigerian has won a field event world title, either at junior or senior level.

Reflecting on her achievement, the newly crowned world champion described her season as an emotional journey, revealing that her confidence had grown after previously winning a silver medal at the Commonwealth Youth Games.

“It’s been an emotional roller coaster coming into my first international competition and getting the silver medal at the Commonwealth. I was already gobsmacked… So coming into U20s, I have high goals for this meet. I’ve been looking forward to this all year,” Oji said.

The Nigerian youngster admitted she was not in peak physical condition after a demanding season but expressed delight at finishing with the world title.

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She said handling the pressure throughout the year had strengthened her confidence ahead of her upcoming collegiate season.

Oji also paid tribute to fellow Nigerian throwers Obiageri Amaechi and Chukwuebuka Enekwechi for their encouragement during her journey.

She praised the duo, whom she affectionately referred to as her “auntie” and “uncle,” for their unwavering support as she achieved the biggest milestone of her young career.

The triumph further cements Oji’s status as one of Nigeria’s brightest athletics prospects and represents a landmark moment for the country’s field events on the global stage.