The National Sports Commission (NSC) has challenged Team Nigeria to produce strong performances at the World Athletics Relays set for May 2 to 3 in Gaborone.
Speaking ahead of the squad’s departure, Director General Bukola Olopade urged the athletes to stay disciplined and focused as they prepare to compete on the global stage. He described the championship as another chance for Nigeria to reinforce its reputation in world athletics.
“The entire nation stands firmly behind you,” he said. “We have absolute faith in your ability to deliver and make Nigeria proud.”
Olopade stressed the importance of chasing podium finishes while also securing qualification slots for major championships on the horizon. The team departed Nigeria in the early hours of Monday aboard Ethiopian Airlines, with several foreign-based athletes expected to link up with the squad on arrival in Botswana.
Nigeria will compete in all six relay events after receiving approval from World Athletics to enter a full programme. The country had initially qualified in three disciplines before expanding its participation.
Officials believe the broader entry offers a significant opportunity to showcase depth across the relay teams and build momentum ahead of future competitions.
The championship doubles as a key qualification route for the World Athletics Championships in Beijing and the World Athletics Ultimate Championship.
