AFN hopes Ofili returns fully as they call for support from Nigerians

●World Athletics blocks Ofili’s switch to Türkiye

By Editor

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria says it has officially welcomed sprint sensation Favour Ofili back into its fold, even as followers of athletics await an official response from Ofili’s manager.

AFN President Tonobok Okowa expressed delight over Ofili’s return, emphasizing the need for unity and encouragement around one of Nigeria’s brightest track talents.

Okowa says the focus now should be on providing the right environment for the 100m and 200m star to thrive, stressing that what she needs most from stakeholders is “love, support, encouragement, and more love.”

If she accepts to continue to represent Nigeria, Ofili’s return is expected to boost Nigeria’s sprint prospects, with the AFN hopeful that renewed backing from officials, fans, and the athletics community will help her reach her full potential on the global stage.

The Nigerian sprint star Favour Ofili was denied approval to switch allegiance to Türkiye after a ruling by World Athletics.

The decision followed a review of her application alongside ten others submitted by the Türkiye Athletics Federation, all linked to a government-backed recruitment drive ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

Why it was rejected:

World Athletics ruled that the transfer was part of a wider strategy to recruit foreign athletes with lucrative contracts, which:

• Undermines the integrity of national competitions

• Discourages countries from developing homegrown talent

• Risks replacing local athletes with imported competitors

Despite considering her personal situation, including her participation at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the panel concluded that approving the move would compromise these core principles.

Ofili remains eligible to compete for Nigeria but cannot represent Türkiye in international events.