Nigerian sprinter Favour Ofili has reportedly switched her international allegiance to Turkey, citing long-standing dissatisfaction with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).
According to sources, Ofili informed the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) that her decision was not financially motivated but stemmed from her frustration with the AFN’s handling of her career.
Ofili’s disillusionment with the AFN began when Nigeria’s failure to meet mandatory anti-doping requirements resulted in her missing the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
She was also excluded from the 100m event at the Paris 2024 Olympics due to an administrative oversight by the AFN.
Despite an investigative committee recommending compensation and an apology, Ofili claims that these actions were not taken.
The AFN’s negligence has been cited as the primary reason for Ofili’s switch.
“The AFN’s failure to meet mandatory anti-doping requirements and administrative oversights have significantly harmed my opportunities,” Ofili reportedly told the AIU.
The AFN’s handling of Ofili’s career has raised questions about the federation’s governance and athlete welfare.
The redeployment of Rita Mordi, the then AFN scribe, who was indicted in the committee report, was seen as a minimal response to the crisis.
However, the Technical Director, Samuel Onikeku, who was also indicted, has since returned to the AFN board, sparking concerns about the federation’s commitment to accountability.
Ofili’s switch highlights the need for reforms in Nigeria’s athletics system to prevent further talent exoduses.
“The loss of Ofili, one of our most promising young sprinters, raises urgent questions about the state of our athletics system,” said a source close to the athlete.
Persecondnews reports that Ofili’s switch to Turkey is part of a growing trend of athletes changing allegiance to the country.
Jamaican shot put bronze medallist Rajindra Campbell and discus gold medallist Roje Stona have also reportedly switched allegiance to Turkey.
Campbell received a $500,000 signing bonus and monthly support as part of the move.
Turkey’s ability to attract world-class talent has raised questions about athlete welfare and federation governance.
Turkey’s growing athletics programme is becoming increasingly attractive to athletes around the world.
According to World Athletics rules, an athlete who has previously competed for a country in a national representative competition or any other relevant competition is required to observe a three-year waiting period before representing a new country.
However, the World Athletics Nationality Review Panel has the discretion to waive or adjust this requirement in exceptional circumstances.
Ofili’s switch may be eligible for an exemption under Rule 4.6, which allows for waivers in cases where an athlete’s federation was suspended or where personal circumstances, such as administrative negligence, significantly harmed an athlete’s opportunities.
If Ofili and the Turkish Federation can convincingly argue that her move was prompted by Nigeria federation’s failures beyond her control, she could be eligible for a waiver.
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