In a move that has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s athletics community, 150m world record holder Favour Ofili has reportedly switched allegiance from Nigeria to Turkey — just three months before the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.
The news was first broken by Jamaica-based journalist Kayon Raynor, who revealed via X (formerly Twitter) that the 22-year-old sprint sensation officially made the move on May 31, 2025. According to Raynor, sources at TVJ News Centre confirmed that Ofili informed the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) of her decision, citing deep frustration with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).
Missed Opportunities and Mounting Frustrations
Ofili’s grievances stem from two major incidents that derailed her Olympic dreams. First, she missed the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games after the AFN failed to confirm the number of doping control tests she had taken — a prerequisite for eligibility. Then, at the 2024 Paris Olympics, she was not entered for the 100m event by either the AFN or the Nigerian Olympic Committee, despite being eligible. She ended up competing only in the 200m, finishing sixth in the final.
“Her switch to Turkey was not for financial reasons,” Raynor emphasized, noting that Ofili made it clear to the AIU that her decision was born out of sheer disappointment and not monetary gain.
Still Listed as Nigerian on World Athletics
As of now, World Athletics still lists Favour Ofili as a Nigerian athlete. However, if the switch is officially confirmed in time, she may be eligible to represent Turkey at the World Championships, scheduled for September 13–21 in Tokyo. Ofili is already qualified for the tournament and has been a beacon of hope for Nigeria’s medal ambitions.
A Rising Star and a Record Breaker
Favour Ofili has been one of Nigeria’s brightest young talents in recent years. In May 2025, she etched her name in history at the Adidas Atlanta City Games by smashing the world record in the 150m, clocking a stunning 15.85 seconds to break the previous record held by Olympic champion Shaunae Miller-Uibo.
Her impressive form and record-breaking potential make her switch even more painful for Nigerian fans and athletics officials, who are grappling with yet another high-profile loss.
Turkey’s Aggressive Recruitment Strategy
Turkey has reportedly been on a recruitment spree, luring top talents from across the globe — including Jamaicans — with lucrative offers. Reports suggest the country pays up to $500,000 to foreign athletes willing to switch allegiance. While Ofili has maintained that money wasn’t her motivation, the Turkish Athletics Federation’s track record of naturalizing top athletes cannot be overlooked.
A Familiar Tale in Nigerian Sports
Unfortunately, Ofili’s story echoes a troubling pattern in Nigerian athletics. Over the years, administrative blunders and poor athlete management have led to the loss of world-class talents to other nations. From Francis Obikwelu (Portugal) to Gloria Alozie (Spain), Florence Ekpo-Umoh (Germany), Salwa Eid Naser (Bahrain), and Femi Ogunode (Qatar), the list is long and painful.
Each of these athletes found better support systems abroad and often went on to achieve greater success after switching flags — a recurring indictment of Nigeria’s sports administration.
What Next for Ofili and Nigeria?
If Favour Ofili’s switch is finalized, she could make her debut for Turkey in Tokyo this September. For Nigeria, it’s yet another reminder of the urgent need to reform the country’s sports governance and prioritize athlete welfare.
As one of the most promising sprinters of her generation, Ofili’s departure could have long-term implications — not just for Team Nigeria’s chances at global events, but also for the morale of upcoming athletes watching how top talents are treated.
One thing is clear: when systems fail athletes, they find nations that won’t.
