“This Change Comes From My Heart, Not Financial Motives” – Athlete Favour Ofili Confirms Switch of Allegiance to Turkey

The world of athletics has once again been thrown into a storm of emotions, shock, and conversations following the latest revelation by Nigerian sprint sensation Favour Ofili. The 21-year-old Olympian, who has carried the Nigerian flag with pride across major championship stages, announced in a heartfelt message that she is switching her allegiance to Turkey, citing deep personal reasons rather than financial motives. For a nation that has celebrated her brilliance, this revelation has stirred both sadness and understanding as one of Africa’s brightest track stars embarks on a new chapter in her career.

Ofili’s announcement came via her social media page where she poured out her heart about the journey she has taken over the years as a representative of Nigeria, the highs of her glittering medal collection, and the lows of her struggles with the athletics governing bodies that she claims failed to support her adequately. Wrapping up her 2025 season, she described the year as a whirlwind of experiences filled with back-to-back races across cities, learning from the best in the sport, and ultimately arriving at one of the most important career decisions of her life. She confirmed that she will now be representing Turkey in international competitions going forward.

Her post read, “Wrapping up my 2025 season has been a whirlwind of new experiences and big decisions. Racing back-to-back 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 am proud to have represented Nigeria for many years in a highly successful way. Having won six gold medals, two silver medals, and two bronze medals in championship meets and a 200 meter Olympic finalist while experiencing the biggest disappointment from AFN and NOC for their negligence towards me in two Olympic Games (Tokyo/Paris), I have made this decision. While that means sitting out this year’s championship in Tokyo, this change comes from the heart, not from financial motives.”

The statement has sparked debate not only among fans but also within the athletic community as many reflect on the growing trend of Nigerian athletes switching allegiance to other nations due to frustrations with their sports administration. Ofili’s words highlight that the decision was not taken lightly but was fueled by painful experiences and a longing for peace of mind. She referenced the “biggest disappointments” she endured in Tokyo and Paris, where she felt let down by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) and the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC). The young star, who has always been known for her humility and determination, did not mince words about the negligence she suffered, suggesting that her career was hampered by systemic failures that should not befall an athlete of her caliber.

This revelation adds to the growing discourse about Nigeria’s handling of its athletes. Despite producing some of the world’s most talented sprinters and track stars, the nation has repeatedly been accused of poor management, lack of support, and neglect. Ofili, one of the most consistent performers for Nigeria in recent years, was often seen as the beacon of hope for the country’s sprinting future. Her ability to compete among the world’s best and deliver medals at major championships made her a household name and a source of inspiration for young athletes.

The fact that such a high-profile athlete has now chosen to represent another country is seen by many as a huge indictment of Nigeria’s sports administration. Yet, for Ofili, the decision is not one of bitterness but of self-preservation, healing, and moving forward. She expressed gratitude for discovering what she called a “new home” in Turkey, and despite the sacrifices involved in switching allegiance—such as sitting out competitions for a certain period—she is optimistic about the future. “I’m truly grateful to have discovered a new home in Turkey. I’m excited for what’s ahead and grateful for all the support I got from my coach, agent, sponsor Adidas, and my loved ones during this difficult time,” she added.

The emotional undertone of her announcement cannot be ignored. Ofili is not just leaving behind a flag but also years of shared history, victories, and a fan base that adored her. Her six gold medals, two silvers, and two bronzes at championship meets are achievements that Nigeria will forever claim, but her future successes will now be recorded in the colors of Turkey. The pain for Nigerian fans is real, yet so is the admiration for her courage to put her mental well-being and career stability above national sentiment.

Athlete switches are not new in the sporting world, especially for countries like Nigeria, where stories of mismanagement have persisted for decades. Several top athletes have changed nationality, finding better support systems and appreciation elsewhere. What makes Ofili’s case unique is her insistence that the decision was not financially motivated but purely from the heart. She sought peace of mind, stability, and a system that would allow her to thrive without the unnecessary frustrations that come with negligence and lack of accountability.

Reactions have poured in across social media, with many Nigerians expressing sadness but wishing her well. Some fans have criticized the AFN and NOC for once again failing to protect and nurture their brightest stars, while others see this as a wake-up call for reforms in sports administration. International observers have praised her bravery and emphasized that athletes should always prioritize their mental and emotional well-being above anything else.

The move also raises questions about Nigeria’s future on the track. With a growing number of talents opting for other nations, the country risks losing its competitive edge on the global stage. For Ofili, however, the focus is clear—peace, growth, and a fresh start in a country she believes will offer her the environment she needs to flourish.

Her story is one of triumph and resilience, but also of heartbreak and disillusionment. It is a reminder that behind the medals, the races, and the glory are human beings who yearn for recognition, support, and respect. Ofili’s words, “This change comes from my heart, not financial motives,” underline that her decision is not about betrayal or abandonment, but about survival and hope for something better.

As she turns the page to this new chapter, the world will be watching closely. Turkey gains a phenomenal athlete whose track record speaks volumes, while Nigeria loses yet another star to systemic failures. Whether this development will spark real change in the country’s sports administration remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Favour Ofili has made her choice, and she has done so with honesty, grace, and courage.

For now, the track awaits her return under a new flag, and as fans adjust to seeing her line up in different colors, the hope is that she will find the peace, joy, and fulfillment she longed for all along.