In a stunning display of determination and grit, Nigeria’s U20 men’s 4x400m relay quartet team brought the crowd at the MKO Abiola Stadium to its feet, securing a dramatic GOLD medal in the final event of the 2025 African U18 & U20 Athletics Championships.
The quartet of Victor Sampson, David Akhalu, Gafar Badmus, and Ezekiel Eno pulled off a sensational late surge, overturning a long-held lead by Botswana to clinch victory in front of a raucous home crowd.
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Botswana had appeared to be in control for most of the race, but Nigeria’s anchor, Ezekiel Eno, fed by the energy of the cheering fans, unleashed a powerful final leg. He timed his move to perfection, overtaking Botswana in the home straight to send the stadium into wild celebration.
It was a perfect ending to the five-day championship in Abeokuta, as Nigeria claimed the final gold medal on offer, underlining the nation’s growing strength in sprint and quarter-mile events.
This victory not only sealed a strong medal tally for Nigeria but also offered a glimpse into the bright future of the nation’s athletics pipeline, with young talents showing they can deliver under pressure on the continental stage.
