Nigeria’s shot at qualifying both 4x100m relay teams for the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo has dimmed. The Netherlands posted a blazing 37.87s at the European Team Championships in Madrid, breaking national and championship records.
Before this, both nations shared the 15th spot with 38.20s. That time was enough for one of the last two time-based qualifying slots. But the Dutch leap now drops Nigeria to 16th—the final provisional spot.
Dutch Team Shines in Madrid
The Dutch quartet—Nsikak Ekpo, Taymir Burnet, Xavi Mo-Ajok, and Elvis Afrifa—executed clean baton changes. They won ahead of Germany (38.27s) and Great Britain (38.33s), asserting their place in Europe’s sprint elite.
Men’s Team on the Edge
Only 16 teams will qualify—14 from the World Relays and two via fastest times by August 27. Nigeria now holds the last time-based spot, but that’s under threat.
Brazil (38.40s), Jamaica (38.45s), and Trinidad & Tobago (38.46s) could push Nigeria out if they run faster in upcoming races.
Women’s Team Falls Behind
Nigeria’s women’s team is 17th with 42.70s—outside the top 16. Australia (42.48s) and Ivory Coast (42.63s) currently hold the two time-based qualifying slots. Nigeria must beat both to qualify.
Four Key Meets Remain
Nigeria has limited chances to improve before the August 24 deadline. The key events left are:
- Nigerian Championships (July 31–August 2)
- Togo Championships (August 9)
- CAA Region II Championships, Ghana (August 15–16)
- Ghanaian Championships (August 21–22)
Urgency Grows for Nigerian Sprinters
Without faster times at these meets, Nigeria may miss both relay events in Tokyo. That would continue a worrying trend of missed chances at major championships.
