AFN Reschedules Benin Golden League, Athletes Demand Welfare Reforms

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has announced a rescheduling of the 1st Leg of its Golden League Competition, originally slated for February 28 – March 1, 2026.

The event will now take place from Monday, March 2 to Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, Edo State.

In a circular signed by AFN Secretary General Israel Inwang, the federation explained that the adjustment was “imperative following a scheduling conflict at the venue during the initial dates, necessitating administrative realignment to safeguard the integrity and seamless delivery of the competition.”

The AFN assured stakeholders that “all other arrangements, entry procedures, and technical guidelines earlier communicated remain unchanged.”

However, the announcement has sparked renewed tension between the federation and athletes.

The athletes’ body has criticized the AFN for failing to provide transportation and accommodation support, insisting that such neglect places undue financial strain on competitors.

In addition, the ₦100,000 top prize money has been described as “inadequate” given the demands of elite competition.

Athletes have also rejected the federation’s insistence on registration fees, declaring that they “are not going to pay money for registration” until issues are resolved, including the provision of a bank account belonging to the Federation where monies will be paid, and not into private accounts as has been the case in recent times.

The AFN, however, appears adamant, raising fears of a showdown ahead of the new competition date.