Nigeria Urges Favour Ofili to Stay After Transfer Block

Nigeria has called on sprinter Favour Ofili to return to the national team after World Athletics rejected her application to switch allegiance to Turkey. The decision was made by a review panel on Thursday, which raised concerns about the integrity of international competition.

Bukola Olopade, the Director General of the Nigeria National Sports Commission (NSC), reaffirmed Nigeria's support for Ofili, encouraging her not to lose heart despite this setback. The major target for Ofili is the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

World Athletics confirmed that 11 transfer applications linked to recruitment drives were rejected, warning that such moves could undermine the credibility of national representation. Reports indicate that Turkey is preparing to appeal the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, which could set a significant precedent for national transfers.

Tonobok Okowa, the president of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, emphasized the need for unity around athletes and stability in their representation.