NSC Hails Nigerian Relay Teams Qualification For World Championships

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has expressed delight for the successful qualification of Nigeria’s relay teams for all entered events at the forthcoming World Relays Championships, scheduled to take place in Gaborone, Botswana, this May.

Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director General of the Commission, lauded the achievement as a significant landmark for Nigerian athletics. He emphasised that it underscores the NSC’s strategic objectives and its fruitful partnership with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).

“This marks a momentous occasion for Nigerian athletics. The qualification of all our relay teams for the World Relays Championships clearly reflects the efficacy of the National Sports Commission’s investment in the Athletics Federation of Nigeria. It demonstrates that our collaborative efforts with sports federations are yielding tangible results,” stated Hon. Olopade in a press release issued on Sunday by his Special Assistant for Media, Kola Daniel.

He added, “Our immediate focus is now on preparations for the championships in Gaborone this May. I wish to express my gratitude to the AFN and our dedicated athletes for their unwavering commitment. It is particularly gratifying to witness some of the younger athletes we have been fostering rise to prominence and contribute significantly alongside our seasoned stars. This instils great confidence for the future trajectory of Nigerian athletics.”

The following teams have secured their qualification:

Men’s 4x400m Relay: Comprising Samson Nathaniel, Emmanuel Ojeli, Victor Sampson Ime, and Sikiru Adeyemi, this team confirmed their spot at the Lefika International Relays held at the National Stadium in Gaborone, Botswana.

Mixed 4x100m Relay: The quartet of Maria Omokwe, Chidera Ezeakor, James T. Emmanuel, and Jennifer Obi Chukwuka also secured their qualification in Gaborone.

Women’s 4x400m Relay: Patience Okon George, Jecinter Lawrence, Anita Enaruna, and Treasure Okereke secured their place at the UJ Esuene Stadium in Calabar during the MTN Champs Relays.

The NSC reiterated its steadfast commitment to ongoing investment in athlete development, grassroots programmes, and providing international exposure, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for Nigerian sports.