World Relays: Nigeria’s mixed 4x100m team smashes African record, secures World Champs slot
By Uzor Odigbo
Nigeria’s mixed 4x100m relay team has secured qualification for the 2027 World Athletics Championships in China following an impressive display at the ongoing World Relays in Gaborone.
The quartet, comprising Favour Ashe, Jennifer Chukwuka-Obi, Chidera Ezeakor, and Maria Thompson, clocked 40.24 seconds to finish fourth in Heat 1 on Saturday.
The time shattered the previous African record in the event, marking another milestone for Nigerian athletics on the global stage.
Nigeria was in thick contention for a podium finish heading into the final exchange but ultimately fell slightly behind the leading pack in a race that saw the world record fall.
Canada took first place with a staggering world record time of 40.07 seconds. Germany followed in second at 40.15 seconds, while the Netherlands clinched third in 40.20 seconds.
Despite finishing outside the top three, Nigeria’s fourth-place finish was sufficient to guarantee a spot at next year’s showpiece in China.
The performance continues a run of fine form for Team Nigeria at the championships in Gaborone, as the country reinforces its status as a continental powerhouse in relay events
