NSC charges Team Nigeria to glow at World Relays in Botswana

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By Maxwell Kumoye 
 
 

Nigeria’s quest for global relay glory has gathered momentum as the National Sports Commission (NSC) send a strong message of belief and expectation to the country’s athletes ahead of the 2026 World Athletics Relays in Gaborone.

Speaking before the team’s departure, NSC boss Honourable Olopade urged the athletes to compete with discipline, unity, and unwavering determination, describing the championship as a vital opportunity for Nigeria to reaffirm its status in international athletics.

“The entire nation stands firmly behind you. We have absolute faith in your ability to deliver and make Nigeria proud,” he declared.

In a show of commitment, Olopade revealed he will be present in Gaborone to personally support the team, an indication of the Federal Government’s renewed drive to elevate Nigerian sports on the world stage. 

Beyond podium finishes, he charged the athletes to target qualification slots for future global competitions that is the World Athletics Ultimate Championship Budapest, Hungary and the World Athletics Championships in China.

A 24-member contingent will represent Nigeria at the two-day event, blending seasoned campaigners with rising talents eager to leave their mark. 

The team departed on Monday aboard Ethiopian Airlines, with other foreign-based athletes linking up directly from their international training bases.

Team Nigeria will compete in all six relay events at the championship scheduled for May 2 to May 3. 

The stakes are particularly high this year, as the competition doubles as a qualification pathway to the 2027 World Athletics Championships in Beijing.

With national pride and global ambitions on the line, all eyes will be on Nigeria’s sprinters to rise to the occasion and deliver when it matters most.
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