By Wealth Oghenemaro
Nigeria’s track sensation and 150m world record holder, Favour Chukwuka Ofili, has officially requested a change of allegiance from Nigeria to Turkey, marking a dramatic turn in her athletic career following a tumultuous period with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).
The 22‑year‑old sprinter, who electrified the world with her blistering 10.93 s 100 m and 21.96 s 200 m personal bests, stunned Nigeria by announcing the switch after persistent administrative disputes that culminated in her omission from the women’s 100 m squad at the Paris 2024 Olympics—despite qualifying .
At Paris 2024, Ofili became the first Nigerian woman since 1996 to reach the Olympic 200 m finals, finishing a commendable sixth. However, tensions with AFN escalated over relay team selections and neglect of the 100 m entry—sparking national outrage and prompting calls for accountability .
In August 2024, AFN confirmed it would not object to a nationality transfer, although strict World Athletics rules mean Ofili must observe a three‑year waiting period before representing Turkey in competition, effectively sidelining her until late 2027.
Ofili’s transfer highlights growing frustrations among Nigerian athletes with systemic federation mismanagement.
Her departure could send shockwaves through Nigeria’s relay squads and diminish the nation’s sprinting credentials on the global stage.
However, Ofili’s next steps hinge on her Turkish citizenship process and World Athletics’ formal clearance. Once completed, her sprinting prowess—bolstered by a world record in the 150 m straight (15.85 s)—will be reintroduced under the Turkish flag.
Under standard rules, the earliest she could compete for Turkey is late 2027, following a three‑year stand‑down period.
