In a shocking development that has sent ripples and disappointment through Nigerian sports, sprinter Favour Ofili has been unable to compete in the 100m race at the Paris Olympics due to a glaring oversight by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).
Read more: Nigeria’s Favour Ofili Misses Out on 100m Due to AFN ErrorDespite qualifying for the event, Ofili was heartbreakingly left out of the competition after the AFN failed to register her for the race. The talented athlete, who has been training rigorously for this moment, expressed her disappointment and frustration on social media.
She said via her X account “ 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?”
Please remember, in the last Olympic Games I was not able to compete because AFN, NADC, and NOC failed to release funds for athletes to be tested, which made 14 Nigerian athletes qualified to not compete. Now THIS!
The incident has sparked outrage among Nigerians, with many questioning the competence of the AFN and demanding accountability for the costly error. This is not the first time the federation has faced criticism for its handling of athletes’ affairs.
Still speaking via her X account, she input that “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 IM ENTERED.”
Ofili, who is still set to compete in the 200m, has hinted at potential legal action against the AFN for the immense damage caused to her career. The incident has undoubtedly cast a shadow over Nigeria’s participation in the Olympics and raised serious concerns about the country’s sports administration.