President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, Tonobok Okowa, has commended Bola Tinubu for supporting Team Nigeria’s successful outing at the World Relays in Gaborone, Botswana.
Nigeria wrapped up the competition with multiple qualification slots for the 2027 World Athletics Championships in Beijing, alongside an impressive African record in the mixed 4x100m relay on the opening day.
Speaking after the event, Okowa credited the Federal Government and the National Sports Commission for ensuring the team’s early preparation and smooth logistics, noting that timely funding played a major role in the outcome.
“I give thanks to President Bola Tinubu, the NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko and the Director General Bukola Olopade for making it possible for us to travel in good time,” he said.
He specifically highlighted the President’s role in making funds available, which allowed the team to prepare adequately and compete effectively.
According to Okowa, the team spent about two weeks in Botswana ahead of the event, a move he believes significantly contributed to their strong performance.
“We went to Gaborone to secure more qualifications and achieved good results, with all six relay teams putting up commendable performances,” he added.
Among the standout moments was the mixed 4x400m team—featuring Samson Nathaniel, Mary Kudoro, Chidi Okezie, and Patience Okon-George—which clocked a season’s best of 3:12.88 to finish second behind South Africa and secure qualification.
The women’s 4x100m team also bounced back from earlier baton errors to post a season’s best of 42.94 seconds, earning their place at the global event.
However, Nigeria narrowly missed out in some categories, with the men’s 4x100m and 4x400m teams falling short, while the women’s 4x400m team did not compete in the repechage round.
Despite this, Okowa expressed optimism about the future, particularly praising the contributions of young and home-based athletes, some of whom are still in secondary school.
“The athletes, especially the home-based ones, did very well. It shows clearly that the future of athletics in Nigeria is bright,” he said.
He concluded by applauding both athletes and coaches for their dedication, describing the performance in Gaborone as a result of collective effort and proper support.
