Nigeria’s Ezekiel Nathaniel etched his name into the history books at the ongoing World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, after storming into the men’s 400m hurdles final with a sensational performance in the semifinals on Wednesday afternoon.

The Nigerian record holder and NCAA Champion seized control of the race early and never looked back, crossing the line in 47.47 seconds to win Semifinal 2. His time was the fastest across all semifinal races, underlining his status as a strong medal contender in Thursday’s final.

The historic run makes Nathaniel the first Nigerian man to reach the 400m hurdles final at the World Championships since Henry Amike achieved the feat in 1987, ending a 38-year wait.

It was also a day to celebrate for Nigeria’s sprint sensation, Udodi Onwuzurike, who kicked off his campaign in the men’s 200m with a smooth run. The national champion clocked 20.27 seconds to finish second in his heat and secure automatic qualification for the semifinals.

He finished just behind American star Kenneth Bednarek, who won in 19.98 seconds, while South Africa’s Sinesipho Dambile also clocked 20.27 to take third.

With Nathaniel blazing a historic trail in the hurdles and Onwuzurike advancing smoothly in the sprints, Nigerian athletics fans have plenty to cheer as the World Championships in Tokyo hits another level.