Nigeria’s push toward the 2026 World Relays Championships gained momentum in Gaborone, Botswana, as the mixed 4x100m relay team and the men’s 4x400m quartet firmly secured their place among the top 24 nations.
With decisive performances at the Lefika International Relays, Nigeria strengthened its global standing and added another qualification slot ahead of the World Relays scheduled for May.
The mixed 4x100m relay team delivered a statement performance, winning their race in 41.45s to climb from 21st to 12th in the world rankings, firmly securing their place at the 2026 World Relays Championships.
Men’s 4x400m
In another breakthrough, the men’s 4x400m quartet clocked 3:02.98 to book a qualification ticket, expanding Nigeria’s presence at the global event.
Nigeria has now secured qualification in three of the six relay events, with further opportunities still open.
These results follow deliberate intervention by the National Sports Commission (NSC) to ensure Nigerian athletes compete at key international meets within the qualification window, an approach already translating into improved rankings and competitive outcomes.
To maximise this window, the Commission has approved the Athletics Federation of Nigeria’s request for additional participation at the Botswana National Trials, allowing remaining squads another opportunity to qualify.
This sustained support reinforces a clear direction: consistent international exposure, structured backing, and performance driven results for Team Nigeria.