Nigerian Athletics Federation Sounds Alarm Over Athlete Exodus, Calls for Urgent Funding
AFN President Warns of Losing Top Talent to Foreign Nations Without Financial Support
As Nigerian track stars continue to seek sporting citizenship abroad, the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has issued an urgent plea for increased funding to stem what officials describe as a “brain drain” threatening the nation’s athletic future. The stark warning came during a press conference at the All Nigeria Athletics Trials in Lagos, where federation leaders painted a concerning picture of Nigeria’s sporting landscape.
The Funding Crisis in Nigerian Athletics
AFN President Chief Tonobok Okowa didn’t mince words when addressing journalists at Yaba College of Technology Sports Complex. “We’re watching our best athletes walk away because we can’t provide basic support,” Okowa stated, his voice carrying the weight of frustration. “Favour Ofili, one of our brightest stars, is nearly gone to Turkey. How many more must we lose before we act?”
The federation’s plea highlights a growing crisis in Nigerian sports – world-class talent being forced to seek opportunities elsewhere due to inadequate funding for training, travel, welfare, and competition expenses. Okowa emphasized that without immediate intervention from both corporate sponsors and government agencies, Nigeria risks becoming merely a talent pipeline for other nations.
The Human Cost of Underfunding
Behind the statistics lie heartbreaking personal stories. Athletes like Ofili, who have represented Nigeria with distinction, now face impossible choices. “These aren’t mercenaries,” Okowa stressed. “They’re patriotic Nigerians forced to make practical decisions about their careers and livelihoods.”
The AFN president outlined the domino effect of underfunding: limited training facilities lead to subpar preparation, which results in fewer international opportunities, ultimately pushing athletes toward nations offering better support structures. It’s a cycle that Nigeria must break to maintain its standing in global athletics.
Glimmers of Hope Amid Challenges
Despite the financial constraints, Okowa pointed to promising performances at the ongoing trials. “Our female athletes continue to excel, and the men are posting remarkable times,” he noted with cautious optimism. The federation remains focused on qualifying relay teams for September’s World Athletics Championships in Tokyo – though Okowa admitted this goal requires additional funding.
The AFN leader acknowledged support from Arise News, Premium Trust Bank, and the National Sports Commission for making the Lagos trials possible. However, he stressed that these contributions, while appreciated, represent just the beginning of what’s needed to rebuild Nigerian athletics.
A Call to Action for Nigerian Sports
Standing alongside Technical Director Gabriel Okon and prominent athletes, Okowa issued a challenge to Nigeria’s business community and government leaders: “Invest in our athletes today, or watch them compete for other nations tomorrow.” The federation proposes a multi-stakeholder approach combining corporate sponsorship with government support to create sustainable funding models.
As Nigeria’s athletic talent continues to shine on global stages – albeit often under foreign flags – the AFN’s urgent appeal raises critical questions about sports development priorities. With proper funding, officials believe Nigeria could not only retain its best athletes but also reclaim its position as an African athletics powerhouse.
The clock is ticking. Every month without action sees more athletes exploring options abroad. For Nigerian sports leaders, the challenge is clear: transform funding structures now or risk permanent damage to the nation’s athletic future.
Full credit to the original publisher: The Tide News Online – Source link