The National Sports Commission (NSC) has settled the allowances and bonuses of Team Nigeria athletes competing at the ongoing 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan.
The development was confirmed in a statement on Tuesday by the NSC’s Director of Press, Dr. Kehinde Ajayi.
According to the statement, NSC Director General, Bukola Olopade, assured the athletes of the Federal Government’s full commitment to their welfare during a meeting with the team and officials of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) in Tokyo.
“I recognise that there have been challenges in the past leading to misunderstandings. This is precisely why Mr. President has revamped sports administration with the establishment of the NSC. Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko is dedicated to ensuring that all our athletes receive the utmost care,” Olopade said.
He urged the athletes to remain focused and patriotic, reminding them of their role as ambassadors of Nigeria on the world stage.
“I encourage you all to remember that you are the mirror through which the world sees our country. Your conduct should always exemplify patriotism, even when faced with challenges. We have no other country but Nigeria, and I take pride in stating that we are among the best people in the world despite our difficulties,” he added.
Olopade also addressed lingering issues between the athletes and the AFN, expressing optimism that ongoing dialogue would strengthen their relationship.
He noted that President Bola Tinubu had directed the commission to prioritise athletes’ welfare, stressing: “The mandate given to us is to ensure every Nigerian representing the nation receives the best support, and that is why I am here.”
The Tokyo Championships have already produced historic moments for Nigeria. Rising sprinter Kayinsola Ajayi became the first Nigerian in 18 years to qualify for the men’s 100m final, while world record holder Tobi Amusan claimed silver in the women’s 100m hurdles with a time of 12.24 seconds.
The World Athletics Championships, the premier global track and field event outside the Olympic Games, runs from September 13 to 21 at the Japan National Stadium in Tokyo.
Tokyo, which last hosted the competition in 1991 when Mike Powell set the still-standing long jump world record, was selected in July 2022 ahead of Nairobi, Singapore, and Chorzów.
