Okowa confirms HiRacer’s $20,000 reward for Amusan, says kits controversy merely a misunderstanding
President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Tonobok Okowa, has reaffirmed the commitment of kits supplier HiRacer to fulfill its $20,000 cash pledge to Tobi Amusan following her silver medal triumph at the ongoing 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.
He emphasized the federation’s renewed dedication to enhancing athlete welfare.
During a meeting held Monday night in Tokyo with Amusan and the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, Okowa made it clear that there is no personal rift between him and the 100m hurdles world record holder, describing her as a valuable asset to the federation.
Addressing recent reports of a kits-related controversy, Okowa clarified that it was merely a misunderstanding and assured that all issues had been amicably resolved. He reiterated that the AFN remains committed to prioritizing the needs of its athletes.
‘HiRacer is ready to honour its $20,000 reward to Tobi for her silver medal performance. We’re also in advanced talks with the company for a more robust and rewarding kits sponsorship deal,’ Okowa stated.
He continued, ‘There’s no problem between Tobi and the Federation. I’ve worked with her for over four years. It was just a brief misunderstanding. This new AFN board is responsive to our athletes’ needs, and we’re committed to doing things differently.
‘I congratulated Tobi Express again for her incredible spirit and performance in the 100m hurdles final, it was a proud moment for Team Nigeria.’
Okowa also extended his gratitude to Olopade and the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, for ensuring the timely settlement of allowances and bonuses owed to athletes competing in Tokyo.
