Nigeria Relay Teams Secure Full Qualification for World Relays Championships

Nigeria Relay Teams Secure Full Qualification for World Relays Championships

By Our Reporter 

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has commended Nigeria’s relay teams for securing qualification across all entered events ahead of the World Relays Championships set to take place in May in Gaborone, Botswana, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Director-General of the Commission, Bukola Olopade, described the achievement as a significant milestone for Nigerian athletics, attributing the success to strategic planning and sustained collaboration with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).

According to Olopade, the clean sweep of qualifications underscores the effectiveness of the Commission’s investment in athletics development and its broader partnership with national sports federations.

“This is a defining moment for Nigerian athletics,” he said. “The qualification of all our relay teams for the World Relays Championships is a clear indication that our investment in the Athletics Federation of Nigeria is yielding tangible results. Our collaborative approach is delivering real progress.”

He added that attention has now shifted to preparations for the championships in Gaborone, while also acknowledging the dedication of both athletes and officials.

Olopade further highlighted the emergence of younger athletes, noting their growing influence alongside more experienced competitors as a positive sign for the future of the sport in Nigeria.

Nigeria’s men’s 4x400m relay team—comprising Samson Nathaniel, Emmanuel Ojeli, Victor Sampson Ime, and Sikiru Adeyemi—secured qualification at the Lefika International Relays held at the National Stadium in Gaborone.

In the mixed 4x100m event, the quartet of Maria Omokwe, Chidera Ezeakor, James T. Emmanuel, and Jennifer Obi Chukwuka also booked their place at the global competition during the same meet.

Meanwhile, the women’s 4x400m relay team, made up of Patience Okon George, Jecinter Lawrence, Anita Enaruna, and Treasure Okereke, clinched qualification at the MTN Champs Relays held at the UJ Esuene Stadium in Calabar.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to sustained investment in athlete development, grassroots initiatives, and increased international exposure, in alignment with the broader vision for sports development under the current administration.