Former world champion and current women’s 100m hurdles record holder, Tobi Amusan, has publicly criticized Nigerian sports authorities regarding the kits issued to the national contingent for the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.
Speaking via a video message shared on her Snapchat account, Amusan described the distribution process and the quality of the equipment as “unprofessional” and symptomatic of what she characterized as a persistent lack of coordination within the Athletics Federation of Nigeria.
She contrasted Nigeria’s approach with that of other nations, noting that while foreign delegations received properly packaged kits in suitcases, Nigerian athletes were handed nylon bags containing only a limited number of items. “This country will steadily embarrass you… every year, that’s how we collect it — inside one small nylon bag,” she lamented.
Amusan further alleged that the gear provided was of poor quality, stating that the competition apparel was insufficient in quantity and prone to fading once exposed to perspiration. She also pointed out the absence of essential items such as long sleeves, singlets, and footwear, despite officials having earlier collected athletes’ shoe sizes.
The athlete’s remarks have drawn attention to recurring concerns about Nigeria’s sports administration, particularly in relation to procurement processes, accountability, and the welfare of national representatives at global competitions. Her commentary comes amid rising fears that frustrated athletes could seek a switch of sporting allegiance, as evidenced by recent defections to other nations.
Nigeria’s 15-member athletics team, captained by Amusan, is scheduled to compete from September 13 to 21 in Tokyo against elite athletes from across the world.#newsafro_
