Team Nigeria has departed for the Lefika International Relays in Gaborone, Botswana, in pursuit of qualification spots for the World Relay Championships. The country's athletics team will compete in four events: men's 4x100m and 4x100m mixed, men's 4x400m, and mixed 4x400m relays. The team's objective is to secure qualification spots for the global event, with the women's 4x100m and 4x400m relay teams already having secured their places.
The Nigerian delegation is led by top officials from the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, including President Tonobok Okowa, Secretary General Isreal Inwang, and Technical Director Gabriel Okon. The team boasts a mix of youth and experience, with athletes such as Enaruna Anita Itohan, Badmus Gafari Atanda, Ezeakor Chidera, Emmanuel James Taiwo, Ojeli Ifeanyi Emmanuel, and George Patience Okon expected to play key roles.
The team has been fine-tuning their strategy and baton exchange over the last six weeks in Asaba, Delta State. With a balanced squad and strong administrative backing from the National Sports Commission and the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, Team Nigeria will be aiming to make a significant impact in Gaborone.
The team's journey to Gaborone began on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, with a flight by Ethiopian Airlines, featuring a scheduled stopover in Addis Ababa before arriving in Gaborone on March 26th.
Enaruna Anita Itohan, a standout athlete on the Nigerian team, will be a key player to watch in Gaborone. Her experience and speed will be crucial in the men's 4x100m and 4x100m mixed events. With the team's strong administrative backing and balanced squad, Nigeria is well-positioned to secure qualification spots for the World Relay Championships. A successful performance in Gaborone will be a significant step towards the team's goal of making a lasting impact at the global event.
