Team Nigeria Eyes More Relay Qualification Slots As Botswana Trials Begin

Team Nigeria is targeting additional relay qualification slots as the Botswana National Trials get underway from Friday, signalling a renewed push to strengthen the country’s presence ahead of the 2026 World Athletics Relays.

Three home-based athletes — Miracle Ezechukwu, Ezekiel Asuquo and Rosemary Nwankwo — have joined the squad, further boosting the nation’s contingent. Their inclusion reflects a deliberate strategy by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), backed by the National Sports Commission (NSC), to develop and promote home-grown talent.

For years, Nigerian athletics has relied heavily on foreign-based athletes. However, the current approach marks a shift, with increased investment in nurturing locally based competitors capable of excelling on the international stage.

According to the Chairman of the AFN Media Committee, Maxwell Kumoye, the Botswana trials represent a crucial testing ground, with significant stakes attached.

With the 2026 World Athletics Relays on the horizon, Team Nigeria arrives not merely to compete, but to secure additional qualification slots and fine-tune performance levels. The country has already qualified in four events — the women’s 4x100m, women’s 4x400m, mixed 4x100m and men’s 4x400m — and is aiming to expand its representation.

Preparations in camp have been intense, with a strong focus on technical precision and team coordination. Under the guidance of Technical Director Gabriel Okon, athletes have been rigorously drilled on baton exchanges, race strategies and optimal team combinations.

Kumoye emphasised that the objective extends beyond qualification.

“This is about building depth and forging a distinct identity for Nigerian relay teams. It is about creating a formidable force powered not only by diaspora talent but also by athletes developed on home soil — determined, prepared and ready to deliver,” he said.

The Botswana trials are expected to provide a clearer picture of Team Nigeria’s readiness as the country intensifies preparations for global relay competition.