Tokyo, Japan | September 18, 2025
Nigerian athlete Ezekiel Nathaniel has made history by qualifying for the men’s 400 metres hurdles final at the World Athletics Championships, becoming the first Nigerian man to achieve the feat in 38 years.
Nathaniel secured his place in the final after clocking 47.47 seconds to win his semifinal heat. His achievement ends a long wait since 1987, when Henry Amike reached the 400m hurdles final at the World Championships in Rome, where he finished sixth.
This landmark qualification marks a significant moment for Nigerian athletics, restoring the country’s presence in the global spotlight for one of track and field’s most demanding events.