AFN Investigates Favour Ashe's Alleged Switch to Qatar

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) is set to investigate the alleged switch of sprinter Favour Ashe to Qatar, amid growing concerns regarding the exodus of Nigerian athletes abroad. The 23-year-old athlete's purported move surfaced online on a Sunday, with reports indicating that he is currently training in Qatar, although no formal confirmation has been made.

Ashe has become the second prominent Nigerian athlete to initiate a national switch, following the 150m world record holder. He has spent the past five months in Qatar after a disappointing campaign in 2025, which included a disqualification in the 100m final at a national sports festival in Abeokuta.

Ashe praised the welfare and organizational support available abroad, fueling ongoing debates about athlete welfare in Nigeria. The AFN President, Tonobok Okowa, stated that the federation has not received any official communication regarding Ashe's alleged switch.

According to World Athletics regulations, athletes seeking to represent a new country must observe a mandatory three-year waiting period before competing in national championships.