Nigeria will not participate in the 2025 World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou, China, due to visa refusals for seven U.S.-based Nigerian athletes.
The National Sports Commission (NSC) confirmed the development on Thursday, May 8, via a statement from Kola Daniel, spokesperson for NSC Director General Bukola Olopade.
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The NSC explained that the Chinese consulate in Nigeria declined to issue visas to the affected athletes, citing China’s stringent visa policies for individuals traveling from the United States. The athletes were key members of Nigeria’s relay teams, and their inability to travel has forced the country’s withdrawal from the event.
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) had complied with all requirements and timelines for participation, the NSC noted, with funding for the competition reportedly secured as early as February and March. In April, the AFN named an 18-member squad, including world record holder Tobi Amusan, who was expected to compete in the women’s 4x100m relay.
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Nigeria was set to contest four events: the men’s and women’s 4x100m, along with the mixed 4x100m and 4x400m relays. These races also serve as qualifiers for the World Athletics Championships in Japan later this year, with the top 14 teams in each category earning automatic spots.
Following the visa setback, the AFN has submitted a formal petition to World Athletics, urging the body to grant Nigeria direct qualification to the World Championships in light of the extraordinary circumstances.
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