Nigeria’s athletics community has received a major boost following the successful qualification of the country’s relay teams for the forthcoming World Relays Championships billed for May in Gaborone, Botswana.
The National Sports Commission (NSC) described the feat as a significant step forward for the nation’s track and field ambitions, applauding the athletes and officials whose efforts secured qualification across all relay events entered.
Speaking on the development, the Director General of the Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, praised the outcome as evidence that the ongoing partnership between the Commission and the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) is yielding positive results.
According to him, the latest achievement underscores the impact of deliberate investments being made to strengthen athletics in the country, especially through improved support for federations and athlete development initiatives.
He noted that the qualification of every Nigerian relay team entered for the competition is a strong statement of progress and a sign that the nation is moving in the right direction ahead of major international competitions.
Olopade also expressed optimism about the team’s chances at the championship in Botswana, commending both seasoned stars and emerging talents who have contributed to the success.
He said the rise of younger athletes alongside experienced competitors offers renewed hope for the future of Nigerian athletics and reflects the effectiveness of long-term development programmes.
Among the teams that booked their places is the men’s 4x400m relay squad, made up of Samson Nathaniel, Emmanuel Ojeli, Victor Sampson Ime, and Sikiru Adeyemi, who sealed qualification during the Lefika International Relays at the National Stadium in Gaborone.
In the mixed 4x100m relay category, the quartet of Maria Omokwe, Chidera Ezeakor, James T. Emmanuel, and Jennifer Obi Chukwuka also punched their ticket to the global event with an impressive showing in Botswana.
The women’s 4x400m team, featuring Patience Okon George, Jecinter Lawrence, Anita Enaruna, and Treasure Okereke, secured their qualification during the MTN Champs Relays held at the UJ Esuene Stadium in Calabar.
The Commission reiterated its resolve to continue investing in grassroots sports, athlete grooming, and international exposure opportunities as part of broader efforts to reposition Nigerian sports on the world stage.