“It is sad, disheartening and painful… We are yet to get any official statement from her or World Athletics. She is a promising athlete with huge potential.”AFN says.
Nigeria’s athletics community is reeling from the reported switch of 22-year-old sprint sensation Favour Ofili to Turkey, a move that has sparked fan approval but stunned officials of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).
According to Jamaica-based journalist Kayon Raynor, Ofili officially changed allegiance on May 31 and cited frustrations with Nigeria’s sports bodies, particularly over her omission from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and the 100m event at the Paris Games. “The switch was not financially motivated,” Raynor added.
AFN President Tonobok Okowa, recently re-elected, said, “It is sad, disheartening and painful… We are yet to get any official statement from her or World Athletics. She is a promising athlete with huge potential.” Okowa acknowledged that the federation will not stop her, adding, “She is still our child, sister and daughter.”
Online, many Nigerians voiced support. “Congratulations. Nigeria doesn’t deserve you,” one Facebook user wrote. Another added, “Best decision… I wish Tobi Express and others would switch too.”
Ofili’s case reflects a troubling pattern, with athletes like Francis Obikwelu and Gloria Alozie previously leaving Nigeria for more supportive environments.
Critics argue the AFN’s administrative failings have led to repeated losses of top talent.
Despite the switch, World Athletics still lists Ofili as Nigerian, and she remains qualified for the World Championships in Tokyo this September.
With reports that Turkey offers up to $500,000 to naturalized athletes, Ofili’s move underscores a growing trend of sports migration fueled by frustration and opportunity.