Nesiama Appointed to Officiate at World Athletics Relays, 60 Years After Olowu’s Historic Commonwealth Role
A Nigerian has once again made history, this time in global athletics officiating.
Omatseye O’weyinmi Nesiama has been formally appointed as an International Technical Official for the World Athletics Relays Gaborone 26, scheduled for May 2–3, 2026 in Botswana.
His appointment comes 60 years after Alhaji Karim Ayinla Babalola (KAB) Olowu blazed the trail as the first Nigerian referee at the 1966 Commonwealth Games in Kingston, Jamaica.
Olowu, a legendary sprinter and long jumper, had earlier won silver medals in the long jump and 4×110 yards relay at the 1954 Vancouver Commonwealth Games.
Beyond his competitive achievements, he became a pioneer in officiating, serving as a referee in Kingston in 1966. His contributions to athletics extended further when he was honoured as a torch bearer at the Barcelona 1992 Olympics.
Nesiama now builds on that legacy. He is a two-time head of the Technical Sub-Committee of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), where he played a pivotal role in shaping technical standards and nurturing talent.
A retired Navy Commodore, Nesiama, who is also the head of the Nigeria Olympic Committee Technical Commission, has dedicated himself to athletics administration and officiating.
His appointment marks the first time a Nigerian will officiate at the World Relays, a global competition featuring the world’s best relay teams.
In a letter of engagement, the Local Organising Committee of the World Athletics Relays Gaborone 26 confirmed Nesiama’s role, praising his professionalism and expertise.
He is expected to arrive in Botswana on April 25 to also participate in the Botswana Golden Grand Prix on April 26, which serves as the official test competition ahead of the Relays.
