Ofili set for Nigeria return ahead of 2026 Commonwealth Games

United States-based Nigerian sprinter, Favour Ofili, could still represent Nigeria at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, as discussions continue over her inclusion in Team Nigeria’s squad.

Ofili, 23, who reached the 200m final at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, was recently at the centre of a nationality switch controversy after her request to represent Türkiye was rejected by World Athletics.

The governing body’s Nationality Review Panel turned down the application, citing concerns over the integrity of international athletics and rising cases of financially driven athlete transfers.

Following the decision, Nigerian sports authorities have moved quickly to explore the possibility of reintegrating the athlete into the national team.

Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, confirmed that efforts are underway to have Ofili compete for Nigeria at the upcoming Commonwealth Games.

According to Olopade, consultations are ongoing with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) regarding her possible inclusion in the squad.

“Ofili is our daughter, and it is good to have her back. I have spoken with AFN officials to see the possibility of including Ofili’s name on our delegation to Glasgow. It will be good to see her compete for Nigeria again,” he said.

Ofili had previously expressed frustration over administrative challenges and athlete welfare issues within Nigerian athletics, which contributed to her interest in switching allegiance.

Despite reportedly obtaining Turkish citizenship and signing a lucrative club deal, she remains ineligible to represent Türkiye at major international competitions such as the Commonwealth Games, World Championships, and Olympic Games.

Her case was part of a wider set of applications submitted by the Turkish Athletics Federation, all of which were rejected by World Athletics.

Former AFN President, Solomon Ogba, welcomed the decision, describing it as a strong stand for fairness in global athletics and a protection for countries that invest in developing talent from grassroots level.

He also advised athletes to prioritize long-term career stability and national identity over short-term financial incentives, noting that many athletes who switch allegiance often return to their home countries after retirement.

The 2026 Commonwealth Games remain one of Nigeria’s key international sporting targets, and Ofili’s potential return is expected to strengthen the country’s sprinting prospects if final approval is secured.

For now, her participation remains under consideration, pending final administrative and technical decisions by relevant sports authorities.