The National Sports Commission has successfully disbursed all pending allowances and performance bonuses to Nigerian athletes currently representing the nation at the ongoing 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan. The move comes as part of a renewed commitment by the federal government to ensure athletes are adequately supported and motivated during international competitions.
Reliable sources within Team Nigeria’s administrative delegation confirmed to KIIN360 that the athletes have begun receiving their entitlements, which include camp allowances, competition bonuses, and appearance fees as stipulated in the team’s preparation and participation budget approved earlier this year. The payments were reportedly processed through the Treasury Single Account (TSA) to ensure transparency and accountability.
This development has sparked a wave of relief and renewed morale within the Nigerian contingent, many of whom had earlier expressed concerns about delayed payments in past tournaments. However, this time, the Sports Commission, in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports Development, ensured that funds were released promptly following final budgetary clearance from the Federal Ministry of Finance.
Speaking from Tokyo, a senior official of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) noted that the athletes’ welfare was treated as a top priority, following the outcry that trailed similar events in previous international outings. He emphasized that the timely payment of allowances and bonuses was key to boosting performance and national pride, especially at a global event where Nigeria is expected to make a strong showing in track and field.
As of the latest count, Team Nigeria has fielded over 30 athletes across multiple disciplines, including sprints, long-distance races, jumps, and relay events. Star athletes like Favour Ofili, Tobi Amusan, and Chukwuebuka Enekwechi are among the country’s medal hopefuls in Tokyo. Already, a few Nigerian athletes have qualified for final rounds in their respective events, raising the country’s chances of finishing strong on the medals table.
In recent years, the issue of athlete welfare has remained a major talking point in Nigeria’s sports sector. During previous competitions, particularly the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the 2023 African Games, several athletes raised complaints over unpaid bonuses and poor coordination. However, the current administration has promised a clean break from past shortcomings, pledging to create a more structured and athlete-focused sports system.
The World Athletics Championships, which began on September 13 and will run through September 21, brings together elite athletes from over 190 countries. Nigeria, a consistent participant since the inaugural edition in 1983, has won several medals over the years, including gold in long jump and hurdles.
With financial obligations now met, all eyes are on Team Nigeria to deliver impressive performances that reflect both their talent and the support received from home.