Nigeria’s Track Stars Vanish as AFN Pleads for Rescue Funding
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) is under mounting pressure as a wave of elite athletes failed to appear at the ongoing All Nigeria Athletics Trials at the Yaba College of Technology Sports Complex, sparking fears of a growing exodus and deepening concerns over the federation’s inability to secure critical sponsorship and federal support.
At the heart of the storm is Favour Ofili, Nigeria’s top female sprinter, who has reportedly initiated a nationality switch to Turkey following years of frustration over lack of funding and missed opportunities.
Her absence from the trials is particularly alarming, as she leads a trio—alongside Tima Godbless and Rosemary Chukwuma—who are the only Nigerian women to have met the World Athletics entry standard for the 100m event at the upcoming World Championships in Tokyo, Japan, this September.
If these athletes refuse selection or remain unavailable, Nigeria may not field a single female sprinter in the 100m event—a devastating blow to the country’s representation on the global stage.
Also missing is Ella Onojuvwevwo, Nigeria’s only qualified female athlete in the 400m event for Tokyo. Her absence has further fueled speculation of a potential nationality switch, echoing the growing sentiment among athletes that Nigeria’s athletics system is failing them.
In a twist that has stunned observers, Favour Ashe, the 2022 national 100m champion, was spotted in Akure, Ondo State, instead of attending the mandatory trials in Lagos. Rumors swirl of a possible move to an oil-rich nation, with insiders fearing Ashe may be the next to abandon the green-and-white jersey.
AFN President Chief Tonobok Okowa, now in his second term, addressed the media with a passionate plea for increased sponsorship and federal funding. He warned that without urgent intervention, Nigeria risks losing its brightest stars to countries offering better support and infrastructure.
‘Favour Ofili is almost gone, and more athletes are about to seek other nations’ nationality,’ Okowa said. ‘The drift should stop through adequate funding for Athletics by sponsors and the Federal Government.’
Critics argue that the AFN has failed to secure even basic kit sponsorships from global brands like Nike, Adidas, or Puma, a glaring omission for a federation of Nigeria’s stature.
With no official apparel partner, athletes are left scrambling for gear, while the federation continues to rely on government handouts—an approach many describe as ‘begging without a plan.’
Observers believe governance failure has made the Federation unattractive to sponsors and this lack of corporate backing and strategic partnerships has eroded athlete confidence, leaving them vulnerable to poaching by foreign nations eager to capitalize on Nigeria’s talent pool.
As the trials continue in Lagos, the absence of key athletes casts a long shadow over Nigeria’s preparations for Tokyo. Without swift action, the AFN may find itself not only short of medals—but short of athletes altogether.
