The future of Nigerian sprinting may be facing a major shake-up as reports surfaced that Favour Ofili, one of Nigeria’s brightest track stars, has written to the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) seeking a change of nationality. The 22-year-old sprinter, who holds the 150m world record, is reportedly frustrated over her experiences with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) at international competitions.
Though World Athletics still lists her as a Nigerian athlete, speculations about her possible allegiance switch have sent shockwaves across the athletics community.
AFN President Tonobok Okowa, reacting to the development, said he was only made aware of the situation through media reports. “It is painful and disheartening if it is true,” he said. “But she is old enough to decide what’s best for her life and career. We can’t stop her.”
Ofili’s strained relationship with the AFN dates back to several disappointments, including being dropped from a women’s race at the 2024 Paris Olympics despite qualifying, and being one of 10 Nigerian athletes barred from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics due to the AFN’s failure to meet anti-doping rules.
Although she received her 2025 training grant, officials say Ofili has become “difficult to deal with,” often skipping national trials or selectively participating. They suspect she has been preparing to switch allegiance to Turkey, citing her new “found love” for the country.
“We’ve tried to reach her, but since Paris, she has shut us out,” Okowa revealed. “Despite everything, she is still our daughter, and we wish her the best wherever she goes.”
The story continues to stir massive conversations online about Nigeria’s sports administration, athlete welfare, and the growing trend of talent migration.
