Global athletics governing body World Athletics has turned down sprinter Favour Ofili’s request to change her international allegiance from Nigeria to Türkiye.
The organisation said the move raised integrity concerns, warning that such transfers could undermine confidence in national representation and long-term athlete development systems.
With the decision, Ofili—popularly known as “Star Girl”—remains eligible only for Nigeria in international competitions unless a successful appeal is lodged.
The 23-year-old is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s leading track stars. She holds the national 200m record at 21.96 seconds and set a world best in the 150m in 2025 with a time of 15.85 seconds, becoming the first woman to break the 16-second barrier in the event.
She has also recorded a personal best of 10.87 seconds in the 100m, ranking her among the fastest Nigerian women ever. In addition, she holds the African indoor 200m record and made history in the NCAA as the first female athlete to run under 11 seconds in the 100m and under 22 seconds in the 200m.
Ofili had announced in September 2025 her intention to represent Türkiye, citing administrative issues with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria.
However, Nigerian authorities opposed the move. The National Sports Commission formally petitioned World Athletics, noting that the athlete benefited from training grants while competing for Nigeria in 2025.
Under existing regulations, athletes are required to observe a three-year waiting period after their last appearance for a country before switching allegiance. Nigeria is pushing to enforce this rule, which would keep Ofili ineligible to represent another nation until at least September 2028—covering the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
The ruling strengthens Nigeria’s position for now, ensuring one of its brightest sprint talents remains within its ranks.
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