By Nana Kwame Bediako
Nigerian sprinter Favour Ofili announced on social media on Tuesday, 30th July 2024, that she will not be competing in the 100m event at the Paris Olympics. Despite having qualified, the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) failed to enter her name, leaving the young athlete disheartened and frustrated. This news has sent ripples through the athletics community, raising questions about the administrative processes within the federation.
Favour Ofili, a 2022 Commonwealth Games silver medalist, expressed her anguish on Social media (X). “It is with great regret that I have just been told I will not be competing in the 100 metres at these Olympic Games,” the 21-year-old wrote. “I qualified, but those with the AFN and NOC (National Olympic Committee) failed to enter me. I have worked for 4 years to earn this opportunity. For what?”
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? pic.twitter.com/eehuKziNaU
— Favour Ofili (@FavOfili) July 30, 2024
Despite this setback, Ofili remains hopeful that the same administrative error will not affect her participation in the women’s 200m and the 4x100m relay, where she is still slated to compete. As the bona fide leader of the Nigerian women’s sprint team, her presence in these events is crucial for the nation’s chances at the Olympics. The situation has highlighted the importance of proper administrative procedures and the impact they can have on athletes’ careers.
If those responsible are NOT held accountable for taking this opportunity from me, neither organization can EVER be trusted in the future!
— Favour Ofili (@FavOfili) July 30, 2024
Next one is the 200meters, 🤷🏾♀️🤷🏾♀️
I HOPE IM ENTERED.
The athletics community has rallied around Ofili, with many expressing their support and outrage over the incident. Fellow athletes, fans, and sports analysts have taken to social media to voice their concerns, demanding accountability from the AFN and the NOC. This incident has sparked a broader conversation about the need for better governance in sports federations to prevent such occurrences in the future.
In the meantime, Ofili’s focus remains on her upcoming events, as she is determined to make her mark despite the challenges.