University of Iowa Secures Nigerian Sprint Star Chidera Ezeakor

The University of Iowa has officially announced the addition of Nigerian sprint talent Chidera Ezeakor to its men’s track and field roster, following a standout season on the local athletics scene. The confirmation was posted on the school’s athletics website on Thursday, Sport360NG reports.

Ezeakor, 20, burst into the spotlight earlier this year after winning the men’s 100 metres at the 2024 National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, clocking a then-personal best of 10.27 seconds. His victory at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in May, ahead of a strong field, established him as one of Nigeria’s most promising young sprinters. The race itself was notable, with Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Favour Ashe disqualified for an incomplete bib, while Olympic finalist Enoch Adegoke settled for silver.

The Edo State-born athlete maintained that form throughout 2025, producing consistent performances at national meets. At the Nigerian Championships in Yabatech on August 1, he ran a new lifetime best of 10.25 seconds in the heats before securing second place in his race. He also helped Team Nigeria claim gold in the 4×100 metres relay with a time of 40.08 seconds.

Earlier in the year, Ezeakor notched multiple heat wins at the MTN CHAMPS Grand Final in Uyo and the AFN/DYNAMIC Athletics Meet in Lagos, regularly dipping under 10.40 seconds under legal wind conditions. His season-best 200 metres time stands at 21.30 seconds, recorded at the MTN CHAMPS Continental Relays in Lagos.

His growing reputation and versatility caught the eye of Iowa’s coaching staff, who see him as a valuable addition to the Hawkeyes’ sprint squad. The 2025 NCAA season will provide Ezeakor the platform to test himself against elite collegiate competition in both indoor and outdoor events.