Nigeria’s Shot Put Star, Chukwuebuka Enekwechi , has called for stronger commercial structures and greater financial rewards for African Athletes, saying this will enable the continent to maximise its vast sporting potential.
Enekwechi, popularly known as Mr consistent on Sunday in an interview highlighted the sacrifices and pain that athletes endure in pursuit of excellence, often without the public fully appreciating what happens behind the scenes.
According to the multiple-time African champion, athletes are not machines but human beings constantly dealing with physical strain, mental pressure and hidden injuries while striving to represent their countries with pride.
“People see the competition day, the results and the celebration, but they do not always see what athletes go through behind the scenes to get there. There is a lot of sacrifice, pain and discipline involved in producing those performances,” Enekwechi said.
The Nigerian record holder explained that many athletes continue to compete despite carrying injuries, giving their all whenever they are called upon to represent their nation.
Enekwechi revealed that he is currently managing a leg injury that may require surgery at the end of the season. Nevertheless, he remains determined to continue competing and delivering strong performances for Nigeria.
Despite the setback, the shot put star expressed confidence ahead of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, insisting that he remains focused on maintaining the high standards that have earned him the nickname Mr. Consistent.
Beyond performances on the field, Enekwechi also addressed the financial realities of athletics, stressing that the sport deserves greater respect, appreciation and investment if it is to continue growing across Africa.
He welcomed the introduction of prize money at the ongoing trials of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria Commonwealth Games by the AFN’s Second Vice President, Akuchukwu Aghazu, describing the initiative as a positive step that could inject fresh motivation into the sport.
One of Nigeria’s most reliable athletes over the past eight years, Enekwechi has consistently delivered medals for Team Nigeria on the international stage.
From winning silver at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast to claiming gold at the 2024 African Championships in Douala, he has established himself as one of the country’s most dependable performers.
His remarkable streak was only interrupted this year, when injury prevented him from competing at the 2026 African Championships.
Enekwechi’s Major International Medals for Team Nigeria
Commonwealth Games
- Silver Medal — Gold Coast 2018
African Games
- Gold Medal — Rabat 2019
- Gold Medal — Accra 2023
African Championships
- Gold Medal — Asaba 2018
- Gold Medal — Saint-Pierre 2022
- Gold Medal — Douala 2024
