By Ebenezer Mabinuola
On June 8, 2025, Nigerian athlete Ronke Akanbi delivered a landmark performance in the women’s 3000-meter steeplechase, setting a new national record during a major international athletics meet in Moscow.
Competing under wet and slippery conditions, the 20-year-old crossed the finish line in 10 minutes, 17.01 seconds, shaving several seconds off her previous best and breaking her own Nigerian record. Though she placed fifth overall in a fiercely competitive race, Akanbi’s time stood out as a personal and national milestone.
Her performance reflects a steady rise in form, with improvements showing consistently over the past year. Observers described her pacing and hurdle technique as vastly improved, despite the added challenge of a rain-soaked track.
Akanbi’s achievement marks a significant moment for Nigerian middle-distance running, especially in an event where East African athletes typically dominate. Her new record demonstrates not only her personal growth but also signals a broader potential for Nigerian athletes in endurance events.
Looking ahead, Akanbi is expected to feature prominently in upcoming international championships, where she hopes to build on her momentum and continue raising the bar for Nigerian athletics.
