Nigerian athlete Chidi Okezie has revealed that determination and focus were key factors behind the country’s qualification for the 2027 World Athletics Championships in the mixed 4x400m relay.
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After missing automatic qualification in their initial heat at the World Athletics Relays in Gaborone, the Nigerian team returned for the repechage round with renewed resolve.
“We refused to leave without qualifying,” Okezie said.
Teaming up with Samson Nathaniel, Taiwo Kudoro, and Patience Okon-George, Okezie helped deliver a season-best time of 3:12.88, finishing second to secure qualification.
“We stayed focused,” he implied.
According to Okezie, the team’s approach was to control what they could and rely on each athlete’s strengths.
“We trusted each other,” he noted.
He emphasized that the setback in the initial heat only strengthened their determination to bounce back.
“It pushed us,” he added.
For the Nigerian team, the qualification represents not just success, but a statement of resilience and teamwork.
“We showed character,” he stressed.
Okezie also revealed that attention will now shift to the upcoming African Championships, where the team hopes to build on this momentum.
“We’re not done yet,” he said.
As preparations continue, the focus remains on improving performance and consistency.
For Okezie, the message is clear.
Stay determined.
Trust the process.
And deliver when it matters.
Because in sport, setbacks don’t define you, your response does.
