Team Nigeria Targets More Relay Slots at Trials in Botswana

Team Nigeria is focused on securing additional relay slots as national trials commence from April 3 to 5 in Botswana. The trials will feature three home-based athletes: Miracl Ezechukwu, Ezekiel Asuquo, and Rosemari Nwankwo, who are expected to strengthen the Nigerian contingent.

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) is working closely with the National Sports Commission (NSC) to build a robust team, highlighting a strategic shift towards supporting home-based athletes rather than relying heavily on foreign-based stars. Maxwel Kumoy, the chairman of the AFN media committee, stated that the Botswana trials serve as a crucial proving ground as Nigeria prepares for the 2026 World Athletics Relay.

Currently, Nigeria has already qualified for four events: the women's 4x100m, women's 4x400m, mixed 4x100m, and men's 4x400m. The team aims to refine their strategies and improve their performance, with Technical Director Gabriel Okon emphasizing the importance of perfecting baton exchanges and race strategies.