Nigerian sprint sensation Favour Ofili has reportedly switched her sporting nationality from Nigeria to Turkey, sparking nationwide reactions from both fans and officials. According to Jamaican sports journalist Kayon Raynor, the transfer of allegiance became official on May 31, 2025.
Raynor revealed in a post via X that the 22-year-old World 150m record holder informed the Athletics Integrity Unit of her decision, citing deep frustration with the Nigerian Athletics Federation. Ofili reportedly said that her decision was not financially motivated but stemmed from missed opportunities, such as being left out of the Tokyo 2020 Games and the 100m event in Paris due to administrative lapses.
AFN President Tonobok Okowa, who was recently re-elected, expressed shock over the report. “It is sad and disheartening, but we are yet to receive any official communication from her or World Athletics,” he said. “From her previous responses, it’s clear she was preparing for this move. While painful, she’s old enough to choose what’s best for her.”
Despite official disappointment, Nigerian fans have overwhelmingly supported Ofili’s decision. One supporter, Bruce Benson, commented, “Congratulations. Nigeria doesn’t deserve you. Turkey will give you more benefits.” Another fan added, “Best decision, darling. I wish Tobi Amusan and others would follow.”
Veteran sports journalist Solace Chukwu criticized Nigeria’s sports system, stating, “Let’s not pretend. Nigeria doesn’t build athletes. If you love her, you’ll support her wherever she competes.”
While Ofili is still listed as a Nigerian athlete on the World Athletics website, reports indicate Turkey’s athletics body is aggressively recruiting foreign talent, allegedly offering up to $500,000 to switch allegiance.
This latest switch follows a long line of Nigerian athletes who left due to mismanagement, including Gloria Alozie (Spain), Francis Obikwelu (Portugal), and Femi Ogunode (Qatar), all of whom found success abroad.
Ofili, who has already qualified for the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo, may soon be donning the red of Turkey—pending official confirmation.
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