Former Nigerian sprint sensation Favour Ofili has officially announced that she will now compete for Turkey, marking a major turning point in her career and a huge loss for Nigerian athletics.
The 21-year-old has long been regarded as a generational talent for Nigeria. She remains the only Nigerian woman to break the 22-second barrier in the women’s 200m, holding the national record at 21.96s. Her decision to switch allegiances underscores both her ambition and the challenges she faced during her time representing Nigeria.
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Ofili represented Nigeria with distinction on multiple stages, including the Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires 2019, the World Athletics Championships in Doha 2019 and Budapest 2023, the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, and several African Championships.
During her career in Nigerian colours, she won six gold medals, two silver medals, and two bronze medals at major championships. She was also a 200m Olympic finalist, further solidifying her reputation as one of Nigeria’s brightest stars in track and field.
Speaking on the emotional decision, Ofili expressed gratitude while highlighting the struggles that influenced her choice:
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“I am proud to have represented Nigeria for many years in a highly successful way. Having won medals and competing at the highest levels is something I’ll always cherish. But I also experienced the biggest disappointment from the AFN and NOC towards me.”
She also looked ahead with optimism, embracing the new opportunities in her career:
“Wrapping up my 2025 season has been a whirlwind of new experiences and big decisions. Racing across amazing cities and learning from the best has been incredible. As some of you have heard, I’m also starting a new chapter representing Turkey. I’m excited for what lies ahead and grateful for all the support I’ve received from my coach, agent, sponsor Adidas, and loved ones during this difficult time.”
The switch is undoubtedly a significant loss for Nigeria, but for Ofili, it represents a chance to continue competing at the highest level under conditions she believes will better support her ambitions.
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As the athletics world turns its attention to the future, all eyes will be on how Ofili’s career evolves in Turkish colours.
