Nigeria’s National Sports Commission of Nigeria has moved to reassure sprint star Favour Ofili, urging her to return to the national fold after her proposed switch of allegiance to Turkey was blocked.
The decision, delivered by World Athletics’ Nationality Review Panel, rejected an application by the Türkiye Athletics Federation, citing concerns about the integrity of international competition and what it described as a coordinated recruitment drive across multiple countries.
Reacting on Friday, the commission’s director general, Bukola Olopade, struck a conciliatory tone, emphasising that Nigeria remains committed to supporting one of its leading sprint prospects.
“She’s our daughter. We love her so much and I’ve always said we must speak to her to come home,” Olopade said.
“Home is waiting for her.”
He also urged the athlete not to be discouraged by the setback, assuring her of sustained backing as she looks ahead to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
“Don’t be dejected or angry. Know that we love you and we still want you back. We promise you all the support that you require to shine at the Olympics in two years’ time,” he added.
The ruling forms part of a broader decision by World Athletics to reject 11 nationality transfer applications linked to what it described as a state backed recruitment strategy aimed at strengthening Turkey’s medal prospects.
The panel warned that such moves risk undermining the credibility of national representation in athletics, particularly where financial incentives outweigh genuine national ties.
Despite the setback, Ofili remains eligible to represent Nigeria at major international competitions, including the World Championships and the Olympic Games.
Support within the country has also gathered momentum. The Athletics Federation of Nigeria had earlier welcomed her back, with its president, Tonobok Okowa, calling for unity and a stable environment to help the sprinter thrive.
Former federation president Solomon Ogba described the decision as a victory for fairness, arguing that it protects developing nations’ investment in grassroots talent.
Turkey is expected to challenge the ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, with reports indicating that a legal appeal is already being prepared.
