Nigerian sprinters Kanyinsola Ajayi and Samuel Ogazi have been recognised as Athletic Heat’s Most Outstanding Male Gold Medalists after producing sensational performances to capture NCAA titles and reinforce Nigeria’s growing reputation in collegiate athletics.

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Sports247 reports that the duo delivered championship-winning displays at the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, showcasing exceptional speed and composure on one of the biggest stages in American collegiate sports.

Ajayi stole the spotlight in the men’s 100 metres, sprinting to victory in a wind-assisted 9.72 seconds (+2.2m/s). Although the tailwind exceeded the legal limit for record purposes, the performance underlined the Nigerian’s immense talent and ability to excel under pressure.

His dominant run secured the NCAA title and placed him among the fastest sprinters ever seen in collegiate competition.

The victory marked another milestone in Ajayi’s rapid rise, with the young speedster continuing to establish himself as one of Nigeria’s brightest athletics prospects ahead of future international competitions.

Not to be overshadowed, Samuel Ogazi produced an equally remarkable performance in the men’s 400 metres. The Nigerian powered around the track in an outstanding 43.38 seconds to claim gold, delivering one of the fastest times ever recorded by a Nigerian over the distance.

Ogazi’s commanding victory highlighted his strength and endurance, confirming his status as one of the leading quarter-milers in collegiate athletics and strengthening his credentials for future appearances on the global stage.

Together, Ajayi and Ogazi embodied the qualities of elite champions, combining explosive speed, technical excellence, and mental resilience to triumph in their respective events.

Their achievements have earned widespread praise and further demonstrated the growing influence of Nigerian athletes within the NCAA system.

The pair’s success also serves as an encouraging sign for Nigerian athletics, with both athletes emerging as potential key figures for the country in major international competitions in the coming years.

By capturing gold in two of track and field’s marquee events, Ajayi and Ogazi not only etched their names into NCAA history but also inspired a new generation of Nigerian athletes aspiring to compete and succeed at the highest level.

Their remarkable performances stand as defining moments in an outstanding collegiate season.

The Federal Government has dismissed reports suggesting it plans to introduce new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products, saying the claims are false and misleading.

The Federal Ministry of Finance disclosed this on Wednesday in a statement signed by Maryann Duke, senior special assistant on communications and press secretary to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele.

It said the reports, which linked the proposed taxes to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Article IV Consultation on Nigeria, do not reflect its position.

According to the government, the recommendations contained in the IMF report are advisory and do not constitute policy decisions or binding actions for Nigeria.

“The Federal Government is not considering the introduction of any new taxes on telecommunications services or petroleum products,” the statement said.

Fuel tax rules remain unchanged.

The government also clarified that existing tax arrangements on petroleum products remain in place.

It said the Value Added Tax (VAT) waiver on fuel has not been removed and is still active.

It also explained that any fuel surcharge can only take effect through a ministerial order published in the Official Gazette, adding that no such action is being considered.

According to the statement, the current arrangements have helped cushion the impact of global fuel price changes on Nigerian households and businesses.

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Telecoms excise duty

On telecommunications, the government said the excise duty introduced before 2023 has already been repealed under the new tax laws.

It added that the tax is, therefore, no longer in force.

The ministry urged Nigerians, media organisations and businesses to disregard claims about new telecoms and fuel taxes.

It said Nigeria’s tax policy remains focused on improving revenue collection, supporting economic growth, and attracting investment, rather than increasing the tax burden on citizens.

The ministry added that any future tax changes would be communicated through official channels and implemented strictly in line with due process.