NSC Urges Nigerian Athletes to Shine at World Relays in Botswana
As Team Nigeria Eyes Podium, Beijing and Budapest Tickets in Gaborone
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has charged Nigeria’s athletes to rise to the occasion at the 2026 World Athletics Relays in Gaborone, Botswana, urging them to make the nation proud on the global stage.
Ahead of the team’s departure, NSC Director General Bukola Olopade emphasized discipline, unity, and determination as key ingredients for success. He described the championship as a crucial platform for Nigeria to reinforce its pedigree in international athletics.
‘The entire nation stands firmly behind you. We have absolute faith in your ability to deliver and make Nigeria proud,’ Olopade declared.
Olopade confirmed he will be present in Gaborone to support the team, stressing that his attendance reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to Nigerian sports.
He encouraged the athletes to aim for podium finishes while also securing qualification spots for upcoming global championships.
A total of 24 athletes will represent Nigeria, with the contingent blending experienced stars and emerging talents. The team, led by sprint sensations Rosemary Chukwuma and Blessing Ogundiran, both of whom have dipped under 11 seconds this season, will compete in all six relay events.
Team Nigeria departed on Monday aboard Ethiopian Airlines, with some athletes joining from their international bases.
This year’s World Relays, scheduled for May 2-3, carry added significance as they serve as qualification pathways to the 2026 World Athletics Ultimate Championship in Budapest and the 2027 World Athletics Championships in Beijing.
On day one, eight teams in each relay event will qualify for Beijing through round one, while another four teams will secure their spots via round two on day two.
Additionally, six teams in the mixed 4x100m and mixed 4x400m relays will qualify for Budapest.
The Gaborone event marks the first time Botswana will host a World Athletics Series competition, making it the eighth edition of the World Relays since its inception in The Bahamas in 2014.
Nigeria, under Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) president Tonobok Okowa, failed to qualify for any relay event at the last World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, an unwanted record the team is determined to correct in Botswana.
