After public rebuke, Okowa congratulates Amusan on World Championships silver
Days after controversially dismissing Tobi Amusan’s concerns over incomplete kits as ‘false,’ Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) President, Tonobok Okowa, has issued a formal congratulatory message to the sprint hurdler following her silver medal win at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan.
Amusan, Nigeria’s track queen and reigning world record holder, delivered a commanding performance in the final of the women’s 100m hurdles, clocking 12.29 seconds to finish second behind Switzerland’s Ditaji Kambundji, who won gold in a new national record of 12.24 seconds.
The USA’s Grace Stark claimed bronze in 12.34 seconds, while Olympic champion Masai Russell finished fourth in 12.44 seconds.
In a statement released by the AFN, Okowa described Amusan as ‘a national pride’ and praised her for carrying the hopes of millions of Nigerians on the global stage.
‘I am particularly happy for Tobi Amusan. She is carrying the hopes of Nigerians at the World Championships as a star athlete. Her discipline on the track against her competitors was amazing, being the current champion,’ Okowa said.
The AFN President, who had previously questioned the credibility of Amusan’s public remarks regarding the federation’s logistical shortcomings, appeared to shift tone in light of her podium finish.
‘With this performance here in Tokyo, Tobi has once again shown that great talents abound in Nigeria. Congratulations to Team Nigeria for this valued medal,’ he added.
Amusan’s silver medal adds to her growing legacy as one of Nigeria’s most decorated athletes.
