AFN’s Mishandling of Ofili Case Exposes Deep Flaws in Nigerian Sports Administration
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has come under fire for its handling of sprint star Favour Ofili, after attempts to compel her participation in national trials despite clear international rules that athlete consent is mandatory.
Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, insisted that Ofili remains a Nigerian athlete and in contention for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, even though she did not attend the ongoing trials.
However, this position ignores the fact that World Athletics rules explicitly protect athlete autonomy.
According to World Athletics Rule 5.4, ‘No athlete shall be entered in a competition without their consent. The Member Federation must ensure that the athlete has agreed to participate before submitting an entry.’
Safeguarding Standards under the Integrity Code of Conduct mandate that athletes must be protected from coercion, with forced participation breaching safeguarding.
The Athletes’ Representatives Rules further confirm that only the athlete or their licensed representative can negotiate entries.
The controversy escalated when Olopade issued a warning to Louisiana State University coach Dennis Shaver, accusing him of making ‘unguarded statements’ about Nigeria’s athletics administration.
In reality, Shaver merely clarified that Ofili would not be competing in the Nigerian championships, a factual statement consistent with safeguarding rules.
This reckless attempt to drag Ofili into the trials without her agreement highlights the dysfunction within Nigerian sports governance.
It is precisely this kind of administrative overreach that led Ofili, Nigeria’s 200m record holder indoors and outdoors, to distance herself from the federation, declaring she was ‘done’ with representing the country.
World Athletics’ safeguarding framework now faces a major test, as Nigeria’s disregard for athlete autonomy raises serious questions.
The AFN’s actions not only undermine Ofili’s rights but also risk sanctions if formally reported.
