By Amaechi Agbo
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has released a formidable 35-man squad ahead of the upcoming World Athletics Relays scheduled to take place from May 2 to 3 in Gaborone, Botswana.
The list, put together by the federation’s Technical Committee following a successful entry process, blends experience with emerging talent as Nigeria aims to make a strong impression on the global stage.
Leading the charge are seasoned athletes including Patience Okon George, new queen on the block, Blessing Ogundiran, Chidi Okezie, Ojeli Ifeanyi Emmanuel, Enoch Adegoke and Favour Ashe, all of whom bring valuable international experience to the squad.
The AFN has also handed opportunities to a new generation of athletes, with rising stars such as Gafari Badmus, Asuquo Ezekiel Eno, Lawrence Jacinta the youngest member of the team, Jimoh Toheebat and Tejiri Godwin earning call-ups, signaling a strategic focus on depth and future development.
Nigeria will compete in all six relay events at the championships, underlining the federation’s ambition to secure podium finishes.
AFN President Tonobok Okowa expressed confidence in the selected athletes, noting that the blend of youth and experience positions Team Nigeria for a competitive outing in Gaborone.
With preparations intensifying, expectations are high that the team will rise to the occasion and reaffirm Nigeria’s status as a powerhouse in global relay competitions.
This Is The Full List: 4×100 Men: Enoch Adegoke, Favour Tejire Ashe, James Taiwo, Emmanuel, Chidera Ezeakor and Tejire Godwin
4×400m Men: Ezekiel Enoh Azukwo, Gafari Badmus, Victor Ime, Samson Nathaniel,
Emmanuel Ojeli and Chidi Okezie
4×100m Women: Jenifer Chukwuka, Rosemary Chukwuma, Miracle Ezechukwu, Rosemary Nwankwo, Blessing Ogundiran and Maria Thompson Omokwe
4×400m Women: Anita Enaruna, Patience Okon George, Toheebat Jimoh, Taiwo Mary Kudoro, Jecinta Lawrence and Esther Okon
4×100m Mixed: Enoch Adegoke, Rosemary Chukwuma, James Taiwo Emmanuel,
Chidera Ezeaku, Miracle Ezechukwu and Blessing Ogundiran
4×400m Mixed: Sekiru Adewale Adeyemi, Anita Enaruna, Patience Okon George, Toheebat Jimoh, Emmanuel Ojeli and Chidi Okezie
