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Team Nigeria is set to depart on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, for the Lefika International Relays in Gaborone, Botswana, as the country intensifies preparations for qualification to the World Relay Championships later this year.
The Nigerian contingent will travel aboard Ethiopian Airlines, with a scheduled stopover in Addis Ababa before arriving in Gaborone on March 26.
At the competition, Nigeria will compete in four events — the men’s 4x100m, mixed 4x100m, men’s 4x400m, and mixed 4x400m relays — with the primary objective of securing qualification spots for the World Relay Championships slated for May, also in Gaborone.
The women’s 4x100m and 4x400m relay teams have already secured their places at the global event, leaving the remaining squads to battle for qualification tickets.
Leading the delegation are top officials of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, including President Tonobok Okowa, Secretary General Isreal Inwang, and Technical Director Gabriel Okon.
The team features a blend 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.
Other members of the squad include Nathaniel Samson, Adeyemi Sikiru Adewale, Sampson Victor Ime, Godwin Tejiri, Andrew Jecinter Lawrence, Chukwuka Obi Jennifer, and Omokwe Maria Thompson.
The team has undergone a six-week training camp in Asaba, focusing on strategy and baton exchanges ahead of the competition.
Backed by the National Sports Commission and the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, Team Nigeria will be aiming to make a strong impression in Gaborone as they continue their build-up to the World Relay Championships.
