Nigeria has officially unveiled a powerful lineup for the 2025 World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou, China, with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) confirming that the nation will compete in four of the six relay categories.
“We are entering the competition with the strongest possible teams in the men’s 4x100m, women’s 4x100m, mixed 4x100m, and mixed 4x400m relays,” said AFN President Tonobok Okowa. “This is a strategic move to secure early qualification for the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo.”
The squad features a mix of seasoned campaigners and rising stars. Leading the charge is world 100m hurdles record-holder Tobi Amusan, who brings her experience and poise to the women’s and mixed 4x100m squads. Joining her is Favour Ashe, the American collegiate sensation, and Udodi Onwuzurike, the former U-20 World Champion, both expected to light up the track in the men’s and mixed events.
“We’ve been working hard on baton chemistry and transitions. Everyone is hungry to deliver,” said Ashe, speaking ahead of the team’s final training camp.
The men’s 4x100m relay squad includes Alaba Akintola, Karlington Anunagba, Olaoye Folawiyo, Usheoritse Itsekiri, Ashe, and Onwuzurike. Meanwhile, Amusan headlines a deep women’s team featuring Favour Ofili, Rosemary Chukwuma, Justina Eyakpobeyan, Obi Jennifer Chukwuka, and Success Umukoro.
In the mixed 4x100m, Nigeria is counting on explosive combinations: Akintola, Ashe, Ofili, Chukwuma, Onwuzurike, and Umukoro. For the mixed 4x400m, experienced hands like Chidi Okezie, Ifeanyi Ojeli, Samson Nathaniel, Praise Idamadudu, Patience Okon-George, and Omolara Ogunmakinju make up a formidable group.
Coach Gabriel Okon expressed confidence: “We’ve got the depth, the experience, and the hunger. This is our time to make a statement.”
Recent performances back that confidence. At the 2024 World Relays in the Bahamas, Nigeria’s mixed 4x400m team smashed the African Record with a time of 3:12.87, finishing fourth and securing Olympic qualification for Paris 2024. Three other relay squads — men’s 4x100m, men’s 4x400m, and women’s 4x100m — also booked Olympic spots.
AFN Secretary-General Rita Mosindi underscored the broader significance of the event: “This isn’t just about medals — it’s about momentum. These relays are crucial for early qualification and rebuilding Nigeria’s relay legacy.”
As the 2025 World Relays approach, Nigeria is aiming not only for podium finishes but to reestablish its dominance on the global sprint scene.
