AFN Says It Won’t Stop Favour Ofili From Switching Nationality

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has stated that it will not prevent Nigerian sprinter Favour Ofili from switching her sporting nationality if she chooses to do so.

An official of the AFN, speaking to The Guardian, confirmed that Ofili is free to represent another country, in line with World Athletics regulations. However, the official emphasized that she would be subject to a mandatory three-year waiting period before she could compete for her new nation.

“There’s no law stopping her from changing allegiance,” the source said. “But she will have to comply with the required waiting period set by World Athletics.”

The statement comes amid reports that Ofili is considering switching nationality following frustrations with Nigeria’s sports administration.

One of the incidents that sparked public backlash was her exclusion from the 100m event at the Paris 2024 Olympics due to an alleged registration error by the AFN.

Despite the controversy, the federation maintained that no athlete is bigger than the sport, adding that Nigeria has a strong pool of talents who are both disciplined and capable.

In essence, while the AFN expressed disappointment over the situation, it made clear that it will not stand in Ofili’s way should she decide to continue her career under a different flag.