Samuel Ogazi goes pro after impressive college career

Nigeria’s sprint star Samuel Ogazi has officially said he is turning professional. This ends his amazing time at the University of Alabama, where he became one of the best 400m runners in NCAA history. He is now the fourth-fastest man ever to complete the one-lap event.

At just 20 years old, Ogazi decided to give up his remaining NCAA eligibility after three outstanding seasons in the United States. During this time, he changed from a promising teenager into a world-class athlete and broke the Nigerian 400m record.

His last college season was truly remarkable. Two weeks ago, Ogazi ran an incredible 43.38 seconds to win the NCAA Outdoor Championship. This time broke the NCAA record and placed him fourth on the all-time list for the event. Earlier this year, he also won the NCAA Indoor 400m title with an African indoor record of 44.57 seconds. This performance made him the fourth-fastest indoor runner ever at that point. He won both the SEC indoor and outdoor 400m titles in 2026 and defended his NCAA outdoor title from 2025. He also won a silver medal in 2024.

Throughout his college career, Ogazi kept breaking the Nigerian 400m record. He started from 44.02 seconds and went down to 43.95, then 43.82, before finishing with the historic 43.38 seconds. This time marked his entry into the global athletics scene as a strong medal contender.

Standing at 1.95m, Ogazi set many records at the University of Alabama. He leaves as the fastest 400m runner in NCAA history.

Athletics Station, a key group in Nigerian track and field, called this decision a big moment for both Ogazi and the sport in Nigeria.

"We are very happy with Samuel Ogazi’s choice to go professional. He has conquered college athletics and leaves as one of the best 400m athletes in NCAA history. There is not much left for him to prove at that level, and this is the right next step for him," the organization said.

"Samuel has shown that Nigerian athletes can compete with and beat the best. His rise from breaking the national record to becoming the fourth-fastest man in history has been amazing. With the right professional support, we believe he will be a global star and a regular medal contender on the world stage."

Athletics Station also urged the athletics community, sponsors, and fans to support the young star as he begins his professional career.

"This is a proud moment for Nigerian athletics. Samuel Ogazi is the future of our sport. As he starts this new chapter, he deserves full support from the athletics community, sponsors, and fans. We believe even greater achievements are ahead for him."