Team Nigeria will be gunning for qualification tickets to the 2025 World Athletics Championships when they line up at the 2025 World Athletics Relays holding this weekend in Nassau, Bahamas.

The competition, which doubles as a qualification event for the World Championships in Tokyo, Japan, is a crucial step for countries aiming to secure places in the major global showpiece. For Nigeria, it represents both a challenge and an opportunity to stamp their authority once again on the international stage.

Nigeria will field teams in multiple events, including the men’s and women’s 4x100m, the 4x400m, and the mixed 4x400m relay. The target is clear: secure qualification in as many events as possible and continue building momentum ahead of what promises to be a busy athletics calendar.

The Nigerian squad, featuring a blend of experienced athletes and exciting young talents, has been undergoing intensive training under the supervision of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN). Star sprinters like Favour Ofili, Udodi Onwuzurike, and Chidi Okezie are expected to lead the charge, with support from a crop of promising new faces eager to make their mark.

Speaking before the team’s departure for the Bahamas, AFN president Tonobok Okowa expressed confidence in the athletes’ ability to deliver. “Our athletes are well prepared. We have put in a lot of effort to ensure they have the best possible support and training. The World Relays is very important to us because it is the gateway to the World Championships. We are optimistic of a strong performance,” he said.

Okowa emphasized the significance of the competition, noting that early qualification would allow the teams to focus on fine-tuning their preparations rather than scrambling for spots later in the season. “Getting it done early gives us the breathing room to plan and improve,” he added.

Nigeria has a strong pedigree in relay events, having won medals at both the World Championships and Olympic Games in the past. The women’s 4x100m team, in particular, has historically been a strong force, and hopes are high that they can continue the tradition with another solid showing in Nassau.

The format of the World Relays ensures that only the top teams progress automatically to the World Championships. The top 14 teams across each relay event at the Bahamas meet will earn direct qualification, meaning that every race will be highly competitive.

Coach Solomon Aliyu, one of the team’s technical leaders, highlighted the importance of focus and teamwork. “Relays are not just about speed; they are about chemistry, baton exchanges, and execution. We have been working hard on all these aspects. The athletes are motivated, and they know what’s at stake,” Aliyu said.

The Nigerian team’s preparations included a final training camp in Lagos, where emphasis was placed on baton exchange drills, race strategy, and fitness conditioning. Special attention was given to the mixed 4x400m relay, a relatively new event that demands tactical depth and smart athlete selection.

One of the standout figures heading into the competition is Favour Ofili, who recently clocked impressive times in the 100m and 200m events at the collegiate circuit in the United States. Her form will be crucial for Nigeria’s women’s 4x100m hopes. Likewise, Udodi Onwuzurike, a rising sprint star and former World U20 champion, is expected to play a key role in the men’s 4x100m lineup.

Another interesting aspect is the return of some experienced hands such as Patience Okon-George and Chidi Okezie, who will bring leadership and composure, particularly in the 4x400m squads.

Beyond individual performances, the spirit within the team camp has been described as highly positive. Several athletes spoke about their determination to make Nigerians proud and ensure the country maintains its strong tradition in relay events.

“We know the expectations, and we are embracing them,” said Chidi Okezie. “When you put on the Nigerian colors, you are not just running for yourself; you are running for millions of people who believe in you. That’s a powerful motivation.”

As the World Relays kick off in the Bahamas, all eyes will be on Team Nigeria to see if they can rise to the occasion. With fierce competition expected from sprinting powerhouses like the United States, Jamaica, and Great Britain, Nigeria will need to be at their absolute best.

Nevertheless, there is an air of optimism around the camp. If the athletes can translate their preparation into performance, there is every reason to believe that Nigeria will not just qualify for the World Championships but do so in style.

For now, the countdown is over, and the track awaits. It’s time for Team Nigeria to show the world what they are made of.