Nigerian 400m hurdler Ezekiel Nathaniel has celebrated his graduation from Baylor University, marking the end of an impressive collegiate career that combined academic success with athletic excellence.

The athlete shared the joyful news on Sunday through social media, posting photos from his convocation ceremony with the caption, “4 years well spent.” The post quickly gained attention across the athletics community, drawing congratulatory messages from fellow athletes, coaches, and fans.

World record holder Tobi Amusan led the tributes, commenting, “Last slide Issa must, congratulations agba runner,” while fellow Nigerian sprinter Chidi Okezie and African shot put record holder Chukwuebuka Enekwechi also sent in their congratulations. Discus thrower Obiageri Amaechi, the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), and several top athletes, including Trayvon Bromell, also joined in celebrating Nathaniel’s milestone.

Nathaniel’s collegiate achievements are among the most decorated in Baylor’s history. In 2025, he became one of three finalists for the Bowerman Award, the most prestigious honour in American collegiate track and field — the first athlete from Baylor to reach that stage.

During his final season, he clinched the NCAA 400m hurdles title in Eugene, Oregon, and recorded four of the ten fastest times in NCAA history for the event. He also came second in the indoor 400m at the NCAA Championships, narrowly missing the title with a 45.44s finish. His 44.74s run at the Big 12 Indoor Championships ranked as the seventh-fastest indoor 400m in NCAA history.

Nathaniel ended his 2025 season with an 8–1 record in event finals and went unbeaten in the 400m hurdles outdoors. Turning professional shortly after, he signed with Swiss sportswear brand On and has since competed in the Diamond League, making multiple finals.

The Delta-born athlete further cemented his status as one of Africa’s rising stars after setting a new Nigerian national record in the men’s 400m hurdles for the sixth time at the World Championships, where he finished fourth overall.

Ezekiel Nathaniel will next be honoured at the 2025 Bowerman Award Ceremony on December 18 at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Centre in Grapevine, Texas, where the eventual winner will be announced.