Tokyo 2025: NSC Intervenes to Resolve AFN Disputes at World Athletics Championships

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has stepped in to resolve emerging challenges in Team Nigeria’s camp at the ongoing 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, ensuring the swift payment of bonuses and allowances to Nigerian athletes.

The NSC, under the leadership of Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, moved quickly to douse tensions following reported grievances between athletes and the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) over unpaid entitlements.

During a high-level engagement in Tokyo, Hon. Olopade held a closed-door meeting with athletes and AFN officials, where he reiterated the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to the welfare and well-being of Nigerian athletes on the global stage.

“The mandate given to us by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is to prioritize the welfare of every Nigerian representing our nation,” Olopade stated.

“That is why I am here to ensure you are heard, respected, and supported.”

He acknowledged the history of administrative and logistical lapses that had previously marred Nigeria’s international sports outings but noted that the NSC’s establishment marked a new era of reform and accountability in Nigerian sports governance.

“I understand there have been challenges in the past that led to misunderstandings. This is precisely why Mr. President has revamped sports administration through the creation of the NSC,” he added.

Call for Patriotism and ResponsibilityIn his address, Hon. Olopade also issued a passionate call for patriotism and professionalism among athletes, urging them to remain ambassadors of Nigeria both on and off the track.

“You are the mirror through which the world sees Nigeria,” he said. “Your conduct must always reflect our values, even in the face of difficulty. We have no other country but this one—and despite our challenges, we remain the best people in the world.”

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