Paragraph 1: The Nigerian Sports Commission’s Affirmation and Ofili’s Commitment
The National Sports Commission (NSC) of Nigeria has unequivocally affirmed that Favour Ofili, the renowned sprinter and current women’s 150m world record holder, remains a Nigerian athlete. Hon. Bukola Olopade, the Director General of the NSC, emphatically dispelled recent rumors suggesting Ofili’s potential switch of allegiance to Turkey. During a World Press Conference held in Abuja for the Confederation of African Athletics U-18 and U-20 Championships, Olopade, who also chairs the Local Organising Committee, categorically stated that there is no official confirmation of Ofili’s nationality change. Reinforcing this stance, Olopade revealed Ofili’s recent communication with the NSC, wherein she reiterated her commitment to represent Nigeria. Furthermore, Olopade confirmed direct contact with Ofili, during which she personally reaffirmed her allegiance to Nigeria.
Paragraph 2: Ofili’s Continued Engagement with Nigerian Athletics Programs
Underscoring Ofili’s active participation within the Nigerian athletics framework, the NSC Director General disclosed that Ofili was among the 69 athletes who benefited from financial grants provided by the commission in April 2025. This financial support forms part of the NSC’s broader national development programmes aimed at nurturing and empowering Nigerian athletes. Olopade emphasized the absence of any official notification from international federations or other national bodies indicating a change in Ofili’s sporting nationality. As far as the NSC is concerned, Ofili remains a fully recognized and active Nigerian athlete, eligible to represent the country in international competitions.
Paragraph 3: Controversy and Concern within Nigerian Athletics
The speculation surrounding Ofili’s potential transfer has ignited considerable debate and concern within Nigerian athletics circles. Ofili’s status as a multiple-time national champion, international medalist, and world record holder makes her a highly valued asset to the Nigerian team. Her potential departure is seen as a significant loss, especially given her prospects as a medal contender in major international events. The reports of Ofili’s potential switch have generated a mixture of disappointment, frustration, and speculation about the underlying reasons for her purported decision.
Paragraph 4: The Athletics Federation of Nigeria’s Perspective
Tonobok Okowa, the president of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), expressed his shock and dismay at the reports of Ofili’s potential allegiance switch. Okowa acknowledged the AFN’s shortcomings in supporting the athlete on certain occasions, while also maintaining that the federation had made consistent efforts to retain her within the national team. He described the potential loss of Ofili as "sad, disheartening, and painful," underscoring the athlete’s significant contributions to Nigerian athletics. While recognizing Ofili’s autonomy in making decisions about her career, Okowa lamented the potential impact of her departure on the nation’s athletic aspirations.
Paragraph 5: Implications of a Potential Allegiance Switch and the Precedent of Other Athletes
Should Ofili decide to switch her allegiance to Turkey, she would be subject to a three-year waiting period mandated by World Athletics’ eligibility rules before being allowed to compete for her new nation in major international competitions. This waiting period is standard practice for athletes who have represented a different country in events like the Olympics, in which Ofili participated for Nigeria at the Paris 2024 Games. Ofili’s case would add her to a growing list of Nigerian athletes who have opted to represent other countries, including prominent figures like Francis Obikwelu (Portugal), Gloria Alozie (Spain), Florence Ekpo-Umoh (Germany), Femi Ogunode (Qatar), and Salwa Eid Naser (Bahrain). This trend raises questions about athlete support and development within Nigeria’s sporting system.
Paragraph 6: The Role of the Turkish Athletics Federation and Ofili’s Current Status
Reports suggest that the Turkish athletics federation has been actively recruiting foreign athletes, offering attractive financial incentives to secure their participation. This aggressive recruitment strategy has raised concerns about the potential impact on the competitive landscape of international athletics. Despite the circulating rumors, World Athletics continues to list Favour Ofili as a Nigerian athlete on her official profile. She remains qualified to represent Nigeria at the upcoming Tokyo World Championships scheduled for September 13 to 21. The final decision regarding her sporting nationality remains a matter of speculation and awaits official confirmation.
