AFN Detractors Threatening Future of Nigerian Athletics – Gabriel Opuana

Lagos, Nigeria – Former national hammer throw champion and President of the Nigeria Coaches Association, Gabriel Opuana, has strongly condemned individuals he describes as “detractors” for publishing what he calls false and damaging information about the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).

Opuana, a veteran of Nigerian athletics and former U.S.-based liaison for Team Nigeria, expressed disappointment over what he sees as a deliberate effort to undermine the progress of Nigerian track and field through misinformation and baseless criticism.

“Sports are meant to promote unity, friendship, and youth development,” Opuana said. “Unfortunately, some individuals who have previously benefited from the sport are now focused on stirring discord instead of supporting ongoing efforts to build athletics in Nigeria.”

Opuana singled out a recent publication by journalist Dare Esan, describing the article published in Sports Now as “false and dangerous”, especially in light of the ongoing All Nigeria Athletics Championships at Yabatech Sports Complex — a critical qualifier for the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan.

He warned that such negative narratives risk chasing away potential sponsors, which are vital for athlete development and welfare.

“The AFN needs funding to ensure athletes are supported and able to perform at their best,” he said. “But the constant barrage of falsehoods is damaging our reputation and scaring away the sponsors we desperately need.”

Opuana challenged the credibility of the article, questioning why the report was not published on more established platforms.

“If Mr. Esan is sure of his facts, why were they not published on a credible platform like Complete Sports, where he still serves as an Editor?” he asked.

He called on the leadership of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to intervene and caution Esan, accusing the veteran journalist of repeatedly acting against the ethics of journalism and being a hindrance to the growth of athletics in the country.

“His actions in the last 30 months have been a disservice to athletics in Nigeria,” Opuana added. “This is a time when stakeholders should be united in celebrating our athletes, not sowing division.”

The 63-year-old stressed that while exposing corruption in sports is important, it is equally necessary to recognize and commend those working tirelessly behind the scenes to improve Nigerian athletics.

“It’s time we encourage the good efforts being made,” he said. “Criticism should be constructive, not destructive.”

Opuana concluded by urging all stakeholders to embrace peace and unity, especially as the nation prepares its finest athletes for international competition.