Nigeria’s Jessica Oji has made history after winning gold in the women’s shot put at the 2026 World Athletics U20 Championships in Eugene, United States.
The 19-year-old produced a winning throw of 18.08 metres to become Nigeria’s first-ever World Athletics U20 champion in a field event in the 40-year history of the competition.
Oji’s remarkable performance saw her finish ahead of Ecuador’s Belsy Quiñónez, who claimed silver with a best throw of 17.90 metres, while Germany’s Emily Scherf secured the bronze medal with 17.23 metres.
The victory represents a major milestone for Nigerian athletics, with the country traditionally known for producing world-class sprinters but now making significant progress in field events.
Oji’s historic achievement came just nine days after she won silver at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, showing her incredible form and consistency on the international stage.
Her rise has been one of the biggest stories in Nigerian athletics this season, as she continues to establish herself as one of the brightest young shot put talents in the world.
The World U20 title adds to a memorable year for Oji and further strengthens Nigeria’s reputation as a growing force in global athletics beyond the track events.
With her latest success in Eugene, Jessica Oji has created a new chapter in Nigerian athletics history and emerged as a name to watch in the future of women’s shot put.
