Nigerian sprinter Favour Ofili was unable to compete in the 100m race at the Paris Olympics due to a glaring oversight by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN). This unexpected development has caused widespread shock and dismay within Nigerian athletics.
Despite qualifying for the event, Ofili was disqualified because the AFN failed to register her. The talented athlete, who has trained intensively for this pivotal moment, expressed her frustration and disappointment on social media.
In a heartfelt post on her Twitter X account, she said, “It is with great regret that I have just been told I will not be competing in the 100 meters at this Olympic Games. I qualified, but those with the AFN and NOC failed to enter me. I have worked for 4 years to earn this opportunity. For what?”
She recalled a similar incident at the previous Olympic Games, where she was not allowed to compete due to the non-payment of testing fees by AFN, NADC, and NOC, which disqualified 14 Nigerian athletes.
Nigerians are outraged by this situation, questioning the competence of the AFN and demanding an apology for the costly mistake. The federation has faced criticism before for its handling of athlete concerns.
Ofili continued on her X account, stating, “If those responsible are NOT held accountable for taking this opportunity from me, neither organization can EVER be trusted in the future! The next one is the 200 meters, I HOPE I’M ENTERED.”
Still scheduled to run the 200 meters, Ofili hinted at a possible lawsuit against the AFN for the severe damage done to her career. This incident has undoubtedly clouded Nigeria’s Olympic prospects and raised serious concerns about the nation’s sports administration.
