AFN Warns Nigerian Athletes against Signing Unfavourable Deals

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) is reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding the welfare and long-term interests of Nigerian athletes, asserting that no athlete's agreement is irreversible. AFN President Chief Tonobok Okowa confirmed the federation is closely observing deals involving Nigerian athletes and will step in if arrangements are deemed detrimental to an athlete or Nigeria's interests.

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It is necessary to protect young athletes from arrangements that could negatively affect their education, careers or national representation.

Okowa, who also holds a Senior Vice President position within the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA), emphasized that athlete welfare is a core responsibility of the federation. He clarified that the AFN has not partnered with any agents to provide scholarships, advising athletes and their families to exercise caution before committing to any arrangements. The federation also stressed that minor athletes should not enter into agreements without parental or legal guardian consent, aiming to protect them from arrangements that could negatively impact their education, careers, or national representation.

The AFN revealed it has advised an athlete to terminate an agreement with an agent and a school after concluding it was not in the athlete's best interest and could harm Nigeria's interests. Furthermore, the federation stated it will not collaborate with Auburn University in the United States as long as coach Ken remains affiliated with the institution. "AFN's position is based on concerns that the coach discourages Nigerian athletes from representing the country," Okowa explained.

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AFN’s position is based on concerns that the coach discourages Nigerian athletes from representing the country.

Okowa affirmed that the AFN will continue to scrutinize agreements involving Nigerian athletes, particularly those with foreign institutions, agents, and other third parties. He acknowledged that while foreign scholarships and training opportunities can be beneficial for athletes balancing education and elite development, such arrangements must not compromise their careers or their duty to represent Nigeria. In one instance, Okowa directed the AFN Second Vice President, Akuchukwu Aghazu, a lawyer, to review an athlete's agreement, providing legal guidance for the federation's subsequent actions. He urged athletes and families to seek proper advice before signing and assured them of the AFN's continued protection of their interests while ensuring opportunities contribute positively to their development.

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In a particular case, I directed the AFN Second Vice President, Akuchukwu Aghazu, who is a lawyer, to examine the circumstances surrounding an athlete’s agreement.