World Athletics Rejects Favour Ofili's Nationality Switch to Turkey
In a significant ruling, World Athletics has officially rejected an application by the Turkiye Athletics Federation (TAF) to transfer the allegiance of Nigerian sprinter Favour Ofili. The decision, issued by the Nationality Review Panel, means that the 23-year-old athlete will not be eligible to represent Turkey at major international competitions, including the upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
Details of the Panel's Ruling and Recruitment Strategy
The panel's report, which was made available to The Guardian, highlighted that Ofili's transfer request was part of a broader government-led recruitment strategy in Turkey. This strategy aims to attract overseas talent by offering lucrative club-level contracts, with the objective of inducing allegiance transfers and ensuring eligibility for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
The decision stated: "The eleven applications form part of a recruitment strategy led by the Türkiye government to recruit overseas talent by offering lucrative club-level contracts with the objective of inducing transfers of allegiance and ensuring the athletes become eligible to represent Turkey at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games."
Ofili's Claims and the Panel's Findings
Ofili, who was born in Delta State and last represented Nigeria at the Paris 2024 Olympics, argued that her move to switch allegiance was motivated by disputes with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN). She claimed the AFN failed her at two Olympic Games and cited personal safety concerns. Despite these arguments, the panel found that Ofili's ties to Turkey were not sufficiently established.
The ruling explained: "There was no evidence of pre-Application connection to Türkiye, and there are limited credible indications that there will be continuous residence and day-to-day integration in Türkiye in the future." The panel also warned that such recruitment campaigns undermine domestic athletes' pathways and compromise the integrity of national representation.
Implications for Ofili's Career and Financial Gains
The rejection of Ofili's transfer has not only ended her hopes of representing Turkey at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics but also her financial gains. In May 2025, Ofili signed a contract worth $10,000 per month until 2028, followed by $5,000 per month until 2032. This deal would have guaranteed her a steady income far beyond what Nigerian athletes currently receive.
Under Regulation 2.23, Ofili or TAF may request reconsideration and, if unsuccessful, appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) within 30 days. The decision is final unless appealed.
Safeguarding Measures and Athlete Welfare
World Athletics emphasized its commitment to athlete welfare by initiating safeguarding measures for Ofili. Despite rejecting the transfer, the panel stressed that Ofili's testimony about disputes with AFN and her personal safety concerns would not be overlooked.
The ruling noted: "The transfer aims to protect her sports career and mental health following disputes with the Nigerian Athletics Federation… and personal safety concerns." It assured Ofili that these issues will be addressed through its safeguarding processes, ensuring that her welfare is monitored and supported independently of the nationality decision.
NSC and AFN Welcome Ofili Back to Nigeria
Reacting to the development, the Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, expressed happiness in welcoming Ofili back despite her attempt to switch allegiance. Olopade said: "Ofili is our daughter, and we welcome her back."
In a similar vein, the AFN has officially welcomed Ofili back into its fold, signaling a fresh chapter in the relationship between the athlete and the federation. AFN President Tonobok Okowa expressed delight over Ofili's return, emphasizing the need for unity and encouragement around one of Nigeria's brightest track talents.
Okowa stated: "The focus now should be on providing the right environment for the 100m and 200m star to thrive, stressing that what she needs most from stakeholders is 'love, support, encouragement and more love.'"
Future Prospects for Nigerian Athletics
Ofili's return is expected to boost Nigeria's sprint prospects, with the AFN hopeful that renewed backing from officials, fans, and the athletics community will help her reach her full potential on the global stage. This development underscores the importance of supporting athletes and maintaining the integrity of national representation in sports.
