Nigerian sprint star Favour Ofili has been denied approval to switch allegiance to Türkiye after a ruling by the 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.
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 home-grown 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 Turkey in international events.
Meanwhile, the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has officially welcomed sprint sensation Favour Ofili back into its fold, signalling a fresh chapter in the relationship between the athlete and the federation.
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.
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 its 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.
