Team Nigeria’s prospects in the upcoming 2023 World Athletics Championships remain bright, as Coach Endurance Ojokolo-Akpeki assures that the absence of U.S.-based sprinters Godson Brume and Udodi Onwuzirike will not hinder their performance in the men’s 4x100m relay event.
Read Also: Babangida Advices Super Falcons To Shift Focus To 2024 Olympics After World Cup Exit
Set to take place in Budapest, Hungary, from August 19 to 27, the championships are anticipated to showcase Nigeria’s relay prowess despite the notable exclusions.
Godson Brume, boasting a Personal Best of 9.90 seconds, withdrew from the World Athletics Championships due to health concerns, while Udodi Onwuzurike (9.92 seconds Personal Best) is grappling with an injury sustained during NCAA events in the United States.
Despite doubts raised by some observers about the impact of their absence, Coach Ojokolo-Akpeki, a former sprinter herself, remains optimistic about Team Nigeria’s relay chances.
Ojokolo-Akpeki dismisses skepticism and emphasizes the team’s potential to excel with a unified effort and smooth baton exchanges.
“Brume and Udodi’s absence will not be a problem at all,” stated Ojokolo-Akpeki.
She acknowledges the advantage their presence would have brought but highlights the team’s collective strength to persevere.
The coach stresses the importance of teamwork and cohesion, urging athletes and coaches to avoid distractions and disagreements.
Ojokolo-Akpeki, a prominent figure on the track during her active career, expresses confidence in the team’s capabilities, even without Udodi and Brume.
She emphasizes the need to maintain a positive atmosphere for the remaining athletes and encourages them to rise to the challenge.
To address the absence of Brume and Onwuzirike, the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has introduced Adekalu Nicholas Fakorede and Darlington Anunugba to the relay lineup.
Alongside these additions, the team features athletes such as Itseoritshe Itsekiri, Seye Ogunlewe, Ashe Favour, and Alaba Akintola.
As the World Athletics Championships draw closer, Nigeria’s relay squad stands as a testament to the country’s unwavering commitment to track excellence.
Coach Ojokolo-Akpeki’s confidence in the team’s abilities and her emphasis on unity and determination serve as a source of inspiration as Team Nigeria prepares to showcase its skills on the international stage.
