Team Nigeria’s athletics squad will face a key test of speed, coordination, and depth when they compete at the Botswana National Trials from April 3 to 5, as they intensify preparations for the upcoming World Athletics Relays 2026.
Nigeria has already secured qualification in four relay events—the women’s 4x100m, women’s 4x400m, mixed 4x100m, and men’s 4x400m—but attention now shifts to expanding that tally and refining team combinations ahead of the global showdown in May.
Under the guidance of Gabriel Okon, Technical Director of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, the squad has maintained high intensity in training camp, focusing on baton exchanges and race execution in anticipation of a competitive outing in Botswana.
The trials will coincide with the Botswana Athletics National Championships at the National Stadium, which will also serve as the host nation’s final selection event for relay teams.
Host country Botswana is expected to field a strong contingent, headlined by sprint star Letsile Tebogo, alongside Bayapo Ndori and Collen Kebinatshipi in the men’s 4x400m relay.
In the middle-distance events, Tshepiso Masalela and Kemorena Tisang are expected to feature prominently, while the women’s category will see athletes such as Same Mohutsiwa and Naledi Monthe competing for selection.
Acting president of the Botswana Athletics Association, Oabona Theetso, expressed confidence in the quality of performances expected at the championships, noting that improved scheduling has minimized clashes with European meets, allowing top athletes to participate.
With both Nigeria and Botswana bringing strong squads to the track, the trials are set to go beyond routine selection, offering a valuable platform for teams to build momentum ahead of the international relay season. Team Nigeria, in particular, will be aiming to leave Botswana with enhanced confidence, improved chemistry, and potentially more qualification spots secured.
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