Nigeria’s youthful relay team defies odds to reach final, secure China 2027 ticket

... Still in the mix for more tickets 

By Maxwell Kumoye 

Against the backdrop of late withdrawals and a largely home-based squad, Team Nigeria’s youthful quartet delivered a spirited performance to book a place in the final of the mixed 4x100m relay at the World Championships in Gaborone, Botswana.

The team, comprising Favour Ashe, Jennifer Chukwuka-Obi, Chidera Ezeakor, and Maria Thompson—clocked an impressive 40.24 seconds in the semi-finals, finishing among the top contenders to progress.

Their effort not only secured a spot in Sunday’s final but also guaranteed Nigeria qualification for the 2027 World Athletics Championships in China.

In the process, the Nigerian team rewrote their own African record, underlining their growing stature on the global stage despite the challenges faced ahead of the competition.

The semi-final race was fiercely contested, with Canada storming to victory in a time of 40.07 seconds. Germany followed closely in 40.15 seconds, while the Netherlands placed third with 40.20 seconds.

Nigeria’s achievement becomes even more remarkable considering the absence of key athletes. 

Rosemary Chukwuma, Blessings Ogundiran, and Anita Enaruna were unable to make the trip to Gaborone, an absence that significantly impacted the country’s chances in other relay events.

As a result, Team Nigeria narrowly missed out on qualification in four additional relay categories for the 2027 championships. 

However, hopes remain alive as the men’s 4x100m, men’s 4x400m, and mixed 4x400m teams are set to compete in the last-chance qualifiers on Sunday.

With momentum on their side and a place already secured in China, all eyes will now be on the mixed 4x100m team as they aim to cap off their remarkable campaign with a podium finish.