Nigerian Sprinters Ajayi, Nathaniel Book Beijing 2027 Worlds Spots

Nigeria's Kanyinsola Ajayi and Ezekiel Nathaniel have secured automatic qualification for the 2027 World Athletics Championships in Beijing, China. Ajayi hit the qualifying mark in the men's 100m after clocking 9.94 seconds at the Silesia Diamond League in Poland, comfortably meeting the required standard. The 21-year-old sprinter has enjoyed an impressive 2026 season, equalling Nigeria's national record of 9.84 seconds, winning the NCAA title and recording notable victories over reigning world champion Oblique Seville.

Nathaniel also booked his ticket to Beijing after posting 47.83 seconds in the men's 400m hurdles, meeting the automatic qualification standard. The hurdler, a Commonwealth Games champion and Nigerian national record holder, set his personal and national best of 47.11 seconds at the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo. Their qualification gives Nigeria two confirmed athletes for the 2027 championships, with the qualification window still open for more athletes to meet the required standards. More Nigerian athletes are expected to join Ajayi and Nathaniel as the country continues its preparations for the global athletics showpiece in Beijing.