Team Nigeria kicks off its bid for Paris 2024 Olympic relay berths at the World Athletics Relays in Nassau, Bahamas.
The event serves as a crucial qualifier for the centenary games with 893 athletes from 54 nations competing over two days. The top 14 teams in each event at the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 will automatically secure spots at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Additional slots will be allocated based on top lists during the qualification period ending June 30, 2024.
Currently ranked second in Africa and 16th globally, Nigeria aims to build on its recent success, including gold in the 4x100m and bronze in the 4x400m at the World Relays. Leading the charge is Tobi Amusan, the women’s 100m hurdles world record holder, alongside a roster of 29 athletes.
However, the men’s 4x100m team sees a notable absence with Favour Ashe, Nigeria’s fastest man this year, omitted from the final entry list. Despite Ashe’s exceptional form, attributed to university commitments, Nigeria’s relay hopes rest on Godson Oghenebrume and Udodi Onwuzurike, among others.
In the 4x400m men’s relay, African Games champion Chidi Okezie spearheads Nigeria’s campaign for Olympic qualification, aiming to secure a spot in Tokyo for the first time since 2004. With formidable talent like Sikiru Adeyemi and Dubem Amene, Nigeria seeks to capitalize on its third-fastest time globally this year.
The women’s 4x400m squad, featuring standout performers like Omolara Ogunmakinju and Ella Onojuvwevwo, eyes Olympic contention following their success at the African Games. With determination and talent, Team Nigeria aims to make its mark on the global stage and secure coveted relay lanes at Paris 2024.
