NSC Urges Ofili to Return with Promise of Full Support, But Can It Match Turkey’s Offer?

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has renewed its appeal to Nigerian sprint star Favour Ofili to return to the national team, assuring her of every support needed to excel at the Olympics in two years’ time.

Director General Bukola Olopade described Ofili as ‘our daughter’ and emphasized that Nigeria remains eager to welcome her back into the fold.

‘She’s our daughter. We love her so much and I’ve always said we must speak to her to come home. I am urging Ofili and those close to her that home is waiting for her.

‘Don’t be dejected or angry. Know that we love you and we still want you back. We promise you all the support that you require to shine at the Olympics in two years’ time,’ said Olopade in a media statement by his office.

However, the promise of support comes against the backdrop of the kind of financial incentives other nations are offering.

Turkey, from the revelation in World Athletics document rejecting her switch of allegiance bid, pledged Ofili $10,000 every month until the 2028 Olympics and $5,000 monthly thereafter until 2032.

Even half of that package, $5,000 monthly until 2028, would amount to $60,000 per year.

That is the kind of structured support Ofili, and indeed Nigerian Olympic athletes, deserve if they are to compete and succeed at the highest level.