NSC Resolves AFN Challenges at World Athletics Championships in Tokyo

The National Sports Commission (NSC) says it has successfully addressed challenges faced by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) at the ongoing 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan.

Led by Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, the commission ensured the timely payment of allowances and bonuses for Nigerian athletes at the global competition.

During a crucial meeting with athletes and AFN officials in Tokyo, Olopade reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare and well-being of Nigerian athletes. He said the intervention was part of President Bola Tinubu’s directive to strengthen sports administration and restore athletes’ confidence.

“The mandate given to us by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is to prioritize the welfare of every Nigerian representing the nation, and that is why I am here,” Olopade said. “I understand there have been challenges in the past that led to misunderstandings. This is why Mr. President has revamped sports administration with the establishment of the NSC.”

He also urged athletes to uphold discipline and patriotism on and off the track, stressing that they are ambassadors of Nigeria on the global stage.

The 2025 championships have already produced notable performances for Nigeria. Rising sprint star Kayinsola Ajayi made history by reaching the men’s 100m final — Nigeria’s first in 18 years — while world champion Tobi Amusan clinched silver in the women’s 100m hurdles with a time of 12.24s.