The President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, Tonobok Okowa, has signalled that the door remains open for Favour Ofili to return to representing Nigeria following the rejection of her nationality switch to Türkiye by World Athletics.
Ofili’s proposed switch, which emerged in May 2025, had stirred controversy within Nigerian athletics, with the sprinter citing dissatisfaction with how her career was being managed.
However, nearly a year later, the World Athletics Nationality Review Panel declined the application submitted by the Türkiye Athletics Federation after assessing the circumstances surrounding the request.
The decision was part of a broader review of 11 applications linked to what was described as a government-backed recruitment drive aimed at attracting foreign athletes ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. World Athletics ruled that such moves could undermine the integrity of international competitions, discourage the development of homegrown talent, and promote the replacement of local athletes with imported competitors.
The global body reiterated that its rules grant it the authority to reject nationality switches where wider institutional objectives may be compromised.
While the panel considered Ofili’s grievances with Nigerian athletics authorities, it concluded that they did not outweigh the broader concerns. It noted that the sprinter last represented Nigeria at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and has since obtained Turkish citizenship and signed a long-term contract, but said these factors were insufficient to approve the switch.
Reacting to the development, Okowa expressed optimism about Ofili’s possible return, stressing the importance of unity and support for one of Nigeria’s top sprint talents.
In a statement issued through AFN Media Committee head Maxwell Kumoye, the federation welcomed the development as an opportunity to rebuild its relationship with the athlete.
Okowa emphasised the need to create a supportive environment for the 100m and 200m star, noting that encouragement and consistent backing from stakeholders would be key to her success.
The federation believes Ofili’s return could significantly boost Nigeria’s sprint prospects as it prepares for upcoming international competitions.
Despite the ruling, Ofili remains eligible to compete for Nigeria and can also participate in international meets in an individual capacity, including events like the Diamond League. However, she is not permitted to represent Türkiye in international competitions.
The athlete has yet to publicly react to the decision.
