🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Nigerian athletes call for urgent reforms, funding, and consistent competitions from Athletics Federation of Nigeria
via Punch Nigeria7 min read
Nigerian track and field athletes are urging the Athletics Federation of Nigeria AFN to implement urgent reforms, citing neglect, inconsistent competition structures, and inadequate funding. They warn that their development is being hindered, especially at the grassroots level, where opportunities to compete are scarce. The AFN's attempt to revive the Golden League, intended to boost domestic athletics, faltered after only one leg was held in Benin City, with subsequent legs in Lagos and Abuja/Kaduna cancelled without official explanation. Athletes like sprinter Janet Aadesiyan and long jumper Victoria Ejembi highlight the negative impact of irregular competitions on their training, development, and mental well-being, contrasting their situation with athletes abroad who benefit from structured seasons. Ejembi also raised concerns about unpaid prize money from the Golden League, which she says erodes trust and motivation. Sprinter Ogunnaike Adegoke noted the absence of a predictable calendar, forcing athletes to constantly adjust training plans and sometimes seek alternative income. Elite athletes, including Olympic finalist Enoch Adegoke and National Sports Festival champion Chidera Ezeakor, also emphasize the need for stronger domestic competition and financial support to reduce reliance on foreign-based athletes. In response, AFN Technical Director Gabriel Okon acknowledged the issues, attributing them to limited corporate sponsorship and structural gaps. He called for repo
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Nigerian striker Victor Boniface was named on Werder Bremen's bench for their 1-1 draw against Stuttgart, marking his return to the squad after recovering from knee surgery. Boniface, who has not played competitively for Bremen since December 7, 2025, remained an unused substitute but could feature in the team's upcoming matches against Augsburg, Hoffenheim, and Dortmund. Bremen, currently 12th in the Bundesliga with 32 points, needs at least three more points from their final three games to secure their safety in the German top flight. The 26-year-old's knee injury was initially expected to end his season, leading to his return to parent club Bayer Leverkusen for rehabilitation before rejoining Bremen in late March to resume training. Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes stated that Boniface's loan move was intended to help him regain full fitness after a previous injury-disrupted season, acknowledging the striker's continued struggles with fitness this season despite his undisputed quality. Before his injury, Boniface made 11 appearances for Bremen, providing two assists, after initially finding it challenging to secure a regular starting position.
Genoa forward Jeff Ekhator, born in Genoa to Nigerian parents, has indicated a potential international switch to Nigeria, despite his current involvement with Italy's youth teams. The 19-year-old striker remains eligible to represent both nations at senior level. Ekhator stated that both his parents are Nigerian and that their heritage shapes his identity, adding that he maintains a connection to Nigeria through language and family history, and wishes to visit soon. He noted feeling more Nigerian in social settings, while otherwise identifying as Italian due to his upbringing. Ekhator has progressed through Italy's youth ranks, playing for the U-19, U-20, and U-21 teams, and has made his professional debut for Genoa in Coppa Italia and Serie A. Under FIFA eligibility rules, he is not yet tied to Italy as he has not made a competitive senior appearance, leaving the option open for Nigeria to secure his services.
Yusuf Babatunde Abdullahi, Chairman of Ilorin Emirate Mall, has urged Nigerian governments to prioritize pro-business policies and create an enabling environment to stimulate the economy of Northern Nigeria. In an interview with Arewa PUNCH, Abdullahi highlighted structural challenges hindering business growth and national industrialization, stating that Nigeria's ambition to become an industrial hub requires a coordinated and multi-layered strategy. He emphasized that the country's economic issues stem from structural inefficiencies rather than a lack of resources, advocating for a deliberate and multi-pronged industrialization framework. Abdullahi stressed the importance of small and medium-scale enterprises as key drivers of job creation and economic expansion, calling for targeted reforms such as access to affordable financing, tax incentives, and regulatory support. He also identified poor infrastructure, including erratic power supply and inadequate road networks, as significant constraints to industrial growth. Discussing his own investments in oil and gas, real estate, and retail, Abdullahi noted his desire to foster local economic development and inspire young entrepreneurs, while also emphasizing the importance of social responsibility through initiatives like scholarships and community development.
Premier League clubs Bournemouth and Brighton are reportedly monitoring Millwall winger Femi Azeez following his strong performance in the Championship. The 24-year-old has registered nine goals and eight assists in 34 appearances this season, earning him a spot in the Championship Team of the Season. Foot Mercato indicates that interest in Azeez is growing ahead of the summer transfer window, with his future at Millwall uncertain despite the club's promotion push. Additionally, Azeez has decided to represent Nigeria internationally, despite being eligible for England and Spain. Born in England to a Nigerian father and Spanish mother, he qualifies for all three nations but has not played for England or Spain at youth level, simplifying his commitment to Nigeria under FIFA rules. The Nigeria Football Federation has reportedly contacted Azeez and his representatives to integrate him into the national team for upcoming international engagements.