By Abiodun Adewale
The President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, Tonobok Okowa, has left the door open for Favour Ofili to return to representing the country after her application to switch allegiance to Turkey was rejected by World Athletics, The PUNCH reports.
The news of Ofili’s proposed switch rocked the AFN in May 2025, as the athlete cited dissatisfaction with the handling of her career by Nigerian athletics authorities.
Barely a year after the application, the World Athletics Nationality Review Panel ruled that the request submitted by the Türkiye Athletics Federation would not be approved after reviewing the circumstances surrounding it.
The rejection followed a review of her application alongside 10 others submitted by the Türkiye Athletics Federation, all linked to a government-backed recruitment drive ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. World Athletics ruled that the transfer was part of a wider strategy to recruit foreign athletes through lucrative contracts, undermining the integrity of national competitions, discouraging countries from developing homegrown talent, and risking the replacement of local athletes with imported competitors.
The global body further explained that under its eligibility rules, it retains discretionary powers to reject nationality switches where broader institutional objectives are threatened.
Despite reviewing Ofili’s grievances with Nigerian athletics authorities, the panel said the issues did not outweigh the broader regulatory concerns. It noted that the sprinter last represented Nigeria at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and has since acquired Turkish citizenship, signed a long-term contract, and indicated plans to relocate.
However, those developments were not sufficient to justify approval under the existing rules.
In a statement shared by the head of the AFN Media Committee, Maxwell Kumoye, Okowa expressed delight over Ofili’s potential return, emphasising the need for unity and encouragement around one of Nigeria’s brightest track talents.
“The Athletics Federation of Nigeria has officially welcomed sprint sensation Favour Ofili back into its fold, signalling a fresh chapter in the relationship between the athlete and the federation,” the statement read.
“According to Okowa, 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.
“The federation’s stance comes at a crucial time for Nigerian athletics, as it looks to rebuild trust and strengthen athlete relations ahead of major international competitions.
“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.”
Ofili remains eligible to compete for Nigeria and individually at international meets like the Diamond League but cannot represent Türkiye in international events.
The athlete is yet to respond to inquiries or make any public statement on the development.
