‘No Misuse of Funds, Athletes Fully Paid’: AFN Refutes Poor Camp Claims, Explains Allowance Delays
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has issued an official statement addressing reports of poor welfare and unpaid allowances during the recently concluded Phase One National Camp for the Commonwealth Games in Asaba.
In the release, the Federation insisted that all funding for the camp was properly approved and disbursed by the National Sports Commission through the AFN Treasurer, stressing that ‘there was no diversion, misuse, or misappropriation of funds.’
On accommodation and facilities, the AFN said athletes and officials were housed in a ‘well-rated hotel facility’ and that a joint inspection was carried out by senior officials before camp began.
Feeding arrangements, it added, met nutritional requirements, with the AFN President making additional provisions to ensure no athlete experienced shortfalls.
The Federation rejected claims of inhumane treatment or lack of electricity, saying such allegations ‘do not reflect the conditions of the camp.’
The AFN also confirmed that allowances were fully paid, though some delays occurred due to third-party processing issues.
Athletes were entitled to ₦100,000 transport allowance and ₦75,000 camp allowance, while coaches received ₦100,000 transport and ₦100,000 camp allowance.
‘We are pleased to confirm that as of the date of this release, all athletes and officials have been fully paid in accordance with their entitlements,’ the statement read.
Responding to a video circulating online in which athletes expressed frustration, the AFN explained that it was recorded during the brief delay period before payments were resolved.
‘It captures a moment of understandable concern, not the final outcome of the situation,’ the Federation noted, adding that it takes athlete voices seriously but rejects any suggestion of neglect.
The AFN concluded by reaffirming its commitment to transparency, athlete welfare, and the integrity of Nigerian athletics.
The press statement however sidestepped thee issue of the ownership of the hotel and a possible conflict of interest concern
