The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has sent a reassuring message to fans back home, confirming that Team Nigeria is primed and ready to shine at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. AFN President, Chief Tonobok Okowa, has put to rest concerns about a kits controversy, describing it as mere noise.
According to him, the athletes are focused, well-prepared, and have everything they need to excel. With high spirits and a winning mindset, Team Nigeria is set to give it their all on the global stage.
“The complete kits have been provided. I met with the athletes and technical team. The issues of their Olympics training grants were raised too, and I am happy that a good number of them have received them,” Okowa said.
“Here in Tokyo, they are accommodated in one of the best hotels with excellent meals and adequate security. Everything is in place, and our athletes have no reason to complain. I can tell you they are wearing their new kits.”
Okowa revealed that AFN is in discussions with HiRacer, a global sportswear brand, for a new kits sponsorship deal. As part of a temporary arrangement, medalists will receive cash rewards: *$30,000 for gold, $20,000 for silver, and $10,000 for bronze. He clarified that the misunderstanding arose due to some athletes’ personal preferences for certain kits.
“For now, there is no formal agreement with HiRacer, but we are talking with them. The kits they supplied us were part of our last-minute discussions. Under the current plan, athletes will earn financial rewards for podium appearances while competing in the new brand. I do not want to go into the issues with Puma, that happened before we came on board,” he explained.
Addressing concerns about an allegedly bloated delegation, Okowa emphasized that AFN arrived in Tokyo with 15 athletes, four technical officials, two medical staff, and two administrators, all in line with World Athletics’ quota for Nigeria. He added that anyone else present in Tokyo was there at their own expense.
The AFN President appealed to Nigerians for unwavering support and prayers, expressing confidence that the athletes will make the nation proud.
