Precious Okoronkwo recounts four-year break, depression after accident
Nigerian athlete Precious Okoronkwo has shared details of a life-altering accident that kept her away from athletics for four years, saying the experience left her battling depression at a time she was in peak form and preparing for major competitions.
Okoronkwo explained that the setback was especially difficult because track and field had been central to her life since childhood. She said she began athletics in 2008 and had remained deeply committed to the sport ever since.
Reflecting on her dedication, she noted that even academic responsibilities rarely came between her and competition. She recalled an incident in 2016 at Teslim Balogun Stadium, where she abandoned a Yoruba examination paper to compete, saying her passion for athletics at the time outweighed everything else.
The long jumper and sprinter said the emotional impact of the accident was not driven by physical pain, but by the realization of what she stood to lose. She explained that she was in excellent condition and preparing for what she described as the Commonwealth trials period when the incident occurred unexpectedly.
According to her, the timing of the accident meant she missed key competitions, which deepened her emotional struggle and contributed to her depression.
Okoronkwo also alleged that support from sports authorities was limited during her recovery. She said officials from Lagos State informed her that there were no funds available for surgery at the time.
She credited her recovery largely to the intervention of her coach and mentor, Yusuf Ali, who she said worked tirelessly to ensure she received the medical attention she needed.
After a long period of rehabilitation, Okoronkwo said she has now regained both physical strength and mental stability, adding that she feels a renewed sense of peace.
She has represented Nigeria in international competitions, won a national title, and previously finished among the top eight at the African Athletics Championships. She shared her story during an appearance on “Sports Update,” a programme on The Eagle Online Nigeria YouTube channel.
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