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Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Team Nigeria to make the country proud as they compete at the 8th edition of the World Athletics Relays Championship in Gaborone.
The President’s message was delivered by Bukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission, who encouraged the athletes to compete with pride, determination, and a sense of national duty.
The championship features 743 athletes from 40 countries, with qualification spots for the 2027 World Championships at stake.
Team Nigeria faces a tough challenge in the mixed 4x400m relay, where they are drawn alongside strong contenders such as the Netherlands, Jamaica, Poland, China, Japan, and Canada. Only the top two teams in each heat, plus the fastest losers, will progress.
Nigeria, with a personal best of 3:11.99, will rely on a mix of experienced and emerging athletes, including Chidi Okezie and Patience Okon-George.
In the men’s 4x100m relay, Nigeria will compete in a highly competitive heat against teams like Great Britain, South Africa, and Brazil. The squad is expected to feature Enoch Adegoke and Favour Ashe, both known for their speed and international experience.
Globally, the United States is tipped as a leading contender, with strong competition also expected from Canada and Jamaica.
Nigeria, competing in all six relay events, will be aiming to improve on its modest record at the championships, having previously won only two medals — a bronze in 2014 and a gold in 2015.
With high stakes and strong opposition, Team Nigeria will need near-flawless performances to advance and keep their hopes alive on the world stage.
