Is she gone? NSC breaks silence on Ofili’s alleged switch to Turkey

By Aderonke Ojo

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has debunked reports suggesting Nigerian sprint sensation Favour Ofili has officially switched her sporting allegiance to Turkey.

Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, the NSC Director-General, Bukola Olopade, firmly stated that the commission has not received any formal notification from Ofili or any relevant sports body confirming the change.

“As of today, Favour Ofili remains a Nigerian athlete. We have no official documentation indicating any switch of allegiance,” Olopade said.

The clarification follows widespread reports alleging that Ofili, a U.S.-based elite athlete and multiple national record holder, is considering a move to compete under the Turkish flag.

Sources close to the athlete attribute her decision to a string of frustrations with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), including her exclusion from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and the 100m event at the upcoming Paris Games.

Olopade acknowledged that the athlete may have faced setbacks but emphasised that the NSC has continuously supported her through the Elite Athletes Programme (EAP), which allocates $20,000 annually to athletes in Category A to assist with preparations for international competitions.

“We have invested in Ofili’s growth and performance as part of our commitment to seeing Nigerian athletes succeed on the global stage. Her welfare, like that of every elite athlete, is a priority for the Commission,” he said.

The Director-General also pointed to ongoing institutional reforms designed to improve athlete welfare and performance, including the creation of the Elite Athletes and Podium Board.

“This board was set up to proactively address the needs and concerns of our athletes — not just for competition, but also for their lives beyond the track. Athlete welfare is non-negotiable,” Olopade stressed.

He assured that behind-the-scenes support mechanisms are in place and that the NSC remains focused on resolving administrative gaps that may frustrate talent and drive athletes away.

While the NSC continues to monitor developments, Olopade reaffirmed the Commission’s readiness to engage Ofili and any other concerned athletes directly, to address grievances and reaffirm their place in Team Nigeria. (NAN)