The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) is facing a race against time to secure qualifying spots for its relay teams at the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. The initial attempt to qualify during the national trials in Lagos proved unsuccessful, with both the men’s 4x100m and 4x400m teams failing to meet the required standards. This setback leaves all of Nigeria’s relay teams, including the women’s 4x100m, 4x400m, and the mixed 4x400m, outside the automatic qualification zone. The missed opportunity at the World Relays in China due to visa issues further compounds the challenge. However, AFN President Tonobok Okowa remains optimistic, emphasizing the remaining opportunities available before the qualification window closes on August 24.
The Lagos trials revealed the gap between the current performance levels of the Nigerian teams and the World Championship standards. The men’s 4x400m team finished with a time of 3:03.68, significantly off the 2:59.12 qualifying mark held by Zambia. Similarly, the men’s 4x100m team’s time of 40.05s fell short of the required threshold. These results underscore the urgent need for improvement if the teams are to secure their place in Tokyo. The pressure is now on for the athletes to elevate their performance in the upcoming competitions.
Despite the underwhelming performance in Lagos, Okowa’s confidence stems from the potential of Nigeria’s foreign-based athletes, many of whom have already qualified individually or are still striving to meet the qualifying standards. He views their inclusion as crucial to bolstering the relay teams’ chances. The upcoming CAA Region II Championships in Ghana from August 15-16 and the Ghanaian Championships from August 21-22 present critical opportunities for the teams to achieve the qualifying times. Okowa believes that these events will serve as a platform for the athletes to demonstrate their capabilities and secure their spots on the world stage.
Okowa’s optimism also reflects the athletes’ determination to overcome the current setback. He highlights the positive attitude and strong resolve within the teams, emphasizing their eagerness to represent Nigeria and make a mark at the World Championships. This positive mindset, coupled with the anticipated return of foreign-based athletes, provides a glimmer of hope for a successful qualification bid. The athletes are aware of the challenge ahead and are motivated to prove their mettle in the remaining opportunities.
The focus now shifts to meticulous preparation and strategic planning as the teams gear up for the crucial competitions in Ghana. The AFN will likely work on refining team composition, focusing on baton exchanges, and maximizing the individual strengths of each athlete. The goal will be to optimize performance and achieve the required qualifying times. The coming weeks will be a period of intense training and strategic adjustments as the teams aim to peak at the right moment.
The Nigerian relay teams are at a critical juncture. The disappointment of the Lagos trials has underscored the need for significant improvement. However, with the qualification window still open, the athletes have a chance to redeem themselves and secure their place in Tokyo. The upcoming competitions in Ghana will be the ultimate test of their resilience, determination, and ability to perform under pressure. The AFN, under Okowa’s leadership, remains hopeful that the teams can rise to the occasion and achieve the qualifying standards, allowing them to proudly represent Nigeria on the world stage. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining whether they can turn their aspirations into reality.
