Nigerian Athletics President Says Ofili’s Move to Turkey Is About Money
The President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Tonobok Okowa, has said that sprinter Favour Ofili switched to represent Turkey because of money, not because of how she was treated by Nigerian sports officials.
In an interview with ESPN, Okowa said both World Athletics and Ofili had officially informed the AFN about her decision to change the country she represents.
“They have officially informed us — both World Athletics and the athlete herself,” he said.
Ofili recently announced on social media that she would now compete for Turkey. She blamed her decision on poor treatment by Nigerian sports officials at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics. She mentioned being left out of events and not being registered properly as some of her biggest frustrations.
However, Okowa rejected these claims, saying:
“Ofili knows the real reason. This is all about money. She and her coach just want to make money,” he told ESPN.
He added that while he respects her decision, he doesn’t agree with the reasons she gave in public.
“If she wants to go, it’s okay. She’s an adult and can make her own choices. But she should stop using these excuses,” he said.
Okowa also pointed out that other athletes from countries like Kenya and Jamaica have also switched to represent Turkey, often for financial reasons.
“The Kenyans and Jamaicans going to Turkey — what are their reasons? Let her go in peace. It’s her right,” he added.
Ofili, who is 22 and holds the world record in the women’s 150m, insists her move was not about money.
In her statement, she said:
“I’ve made this decision from the heart. While I will miss this year’s championships in Tokyo, it’s not about money.”
Ofili now joins a growing list of Nigerian athletes who have changed nationalities, including Francis Obikwelu, Gloria Alozie, Florence Ekpo-Umoh, Salwa Eid Naser, and Femi Ogunode — many of whom became more successful after switching countries.
