Sprinter Favour Ofili has had her request to switch sporting allegiance from Nigeria to Turkey rejected by World Athletics.
In a statement, the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) said the 24-year-old’s application was declined on the grounds that it could undermine the integrity of national competitions.
Ofili had sought a change of nationality following long-standing issues with the federation, which she said contributed to her missing both the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
However, World Athletics noted that approving such requests could discourage countries from developing homegrown talent and risk the displacement of local athletes by imported competitors. The governing body added that Ofili’s application was among several rejected on similar grounds.
Her last appearance for Nigeria was as part of the women’s 4×100m relay team during the heats at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Reacting to the decision, the AFN welcomed the outcome and expressed readiness to reintegrate the athlete into the national fold.
In a statement signed by media committee chairman Maxwell Kumoye on behalf of AFN President Tonobok Okowa, the federation described the development as an opportunity to reset relations.
Okowa said Ofili’s return marks “a fresh chapter” in her relationship with the federation, adding that efforts would be made to provide an enabling environment for her to thrive.
He also called on stakeholders to offer the 100m and 200m sprinter support and encouragement, stressing the need to rebuild trust and strengthen ties with athletes ahead of upcoming international competitions.
