In a groundbreaking moment for Nigerian athletics, the country’s mixed 4x100m relay team secured a historic gold medal — the first ever since the event was officially recognized by World Athletics.
The quartet of Iyanuoluwa Bada, Janet Adesiyan, Chidera Ezeakor, and Favour Ashe delivered a scintillating performance that captivated the crowd and marked a new chapter in Nigeria’s track and field journey.
Witnessing the landmark feat was the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Honourable Bukola Olopade, who hailed the athletes’ achievement as a proud moment for the nation.
“This is an epochal moment not just for athletics, but for Nigerian sports as a whole,” the DG remarked, beaming with pride. “These young athletes have shown what determination, teamwork, and belief in the green-white-green can accomplish.”
Following the victory, Olopade met with the athletes, congratulating them personally and offering words of encouragement. He urged them to remain focused, continue working hard, and push for even greater heights.
He emphasized that with continued discipline and performance, they could soon join the growing list of Nigerian athletes currently receiving government grants and sponsorships aimed at supporting elite-level preparation and development.
“We are ready to support every talent that proves their worth and represents the country with excellence,” Olopade said. “This is just the beginning for these champions.”
The win is being celebrated nationwide, not just as a medal, but as a symbol of Nigeria’s growing influence in world athletics — particularly in newer events like the mixed 4x100m relay, which test the synergy and strength of both male and female sprinters working as one.
