The Digest:
Tonobok Okowa, President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, stated that Favour Ofili’s decision to switch allegiance to Turkey was financially motivated, dismissing her claims of neglect by Nigerian sports authorities. The 22-year-old sprinter holds the world record in the 150m.
Key Points:
- Okowa claims Ofili's switch to Turkey was financially driven.
- Ofili had stated that neglect by Nigerian sports bodies, especially in Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics, influenced her decision.
- Okowa has no issue with Ofili's personal choice but refutes her public reasons.
- Other athletes, including Kenyans and Jamaicans, have switched allegiance to Turkey.
- Ofili’s departure adds to Nigeria’s history of athletes switching nationalities.
- Ofili holds the 150m world record and had hoped for a better future in Turkey.
- Okowa emphasizes that Turkey’s appeal is largely financial.
Okowa clarifies that Ofili’s switch to Turkey reflects financial motives rather than negligence by Nigerian authorities, a common trend among athletes seeking better opportunities abroad.
Sources: Punch
