Nigeria’s mixed relay team has started the 2026 World Athletics Relays impressively, setting a new African record in the mixed 4×100m event in Botswana.

The competition, taking place from May 2 to 3, features 24 nations competing for qualification and honours, with the mixed relay opening the championship.

Running in Heat 1, Nigeria went up against strong teams including Canada, Germany, and the Netherlands, and delivered a standout performance to finish in 40.24s, a new African record and season’s best.

The quartet of Favour Ashe, Jennifer Chukwuka, Chidera Ezeakor, and Maria Omokwe improved on the previous African record of 41.44s set earlier in March.

Canada won the heat in 40.07s, followed closely by Germany (40.15s) and the Netherlands (40.20s), while Nigeria finished fourth but still secured qualification to the final based on time.

Although they missed automatic qualification spots, Nigeria’s time ranked among the fastest overall non-automatic qualifiers, earning them a place in the final and qualification for the upcoming World Championships.

Their performance places them fifth overall heading into the final behind Jamaica, Canada, Germany, and the Netherlands.

The result further strengthens Nigeria’s growing reputation in the mixed relay event as they head into Sunday’s final with medal hopes and renewed confidence.