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Team Nigeria has departed Lagos for the Lefika International Relays in Gaborone, Botswana, as the country intensifies preparations for qualification to the World Relay Championships scheduled for May.
The contingent, comprising 15 athletes and three officials, left on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, aboard Ethiopian Airlines, with a stopover in Addis Ababa before their expected arrival in Gaborone on Thursday.
Speaking ahead of departure, Secretary General of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Israel Inwang, said the team is in high spirits ahead of Saturday’s crucial races. He also confirmed that key sprinter Enoch Adegoke will join the squad directly from Germany.
Nigeria is set to compete in four events at the meet — the men’s 4x100m, men’s and women’s 4x400m, and the mixed 4x400m relays — with the primary objective of securing qualification spots for the global championships.
AFN Technical Director, Gabriel Okon, expressed confidence in the team’s chances, highlighting the importance of synergy between home-based and foreign-based athletes.
“We need to build a strong blend of athletes at home and those abroad. Together, they can strengthen the team and deliver better results,” Okon said, adding that the athletes are well-prepared for the challenge.
Nigeria has already secured qualification in the women’s 4x100m and mixed 4x100m events, leaving the remaining relay teams to battle for available slots in Gaborone.
Experienced quarter-miler Patience George Okon expressed optimism about the team’s prospects, noting the importance of the competition.
“This race means a lot to me and the team. We are going there to give our best, and we believe we will qualify,” she said.
Teammate Victor Ime also described the relays as a vital opportunity to secure qualification, recalling the team’s previous attempt in Calabar.
The squad features a mix of experienced and emerging talents, including Enaruna Anita Itohan, Badmus Gafari Atanda, Ezeakor Chidera, Emmanuel James Taiwo, Ojeli Ifeanyi Emmanuel, and Patience George Okon. Others are Nathaniel Samson, Adeyemi Sikiru Adewale, Sampson Victor Ime, Godwin Tejiri, Jecinter Lawrence, Chukwuka Obi Jennifer, and Omokwe Maria Thompson.
Meanwhile, Okon commended the support of the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the AFN leadership, singling out NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko, Director General Bukola Olopade, and AFN President Tonobok Okowa for their backing.
Team Nigeria will be aiming for strong performances in Gaborone as they continue their build-up to the World Relay Championships.
