Paris 2024 Scandal: Committee Proposes N8 Million Compensation for Ofili, Faults Officials

An investigative panel reviewing Team Nigeria’s troubled participation in the Paris 2024 Olympics has recommended N8 million (about $5,000) in symbolic compensation for athlete Favour Ofili, who was denied the chance to compete in the women’s 100m despite qualifying.

The committee, formed by former Minister of Sports Development John Enoh, submitted its findings in a 54-page report to Enoh’s successor, National Sports Commission Chairman Shehu Dikko, who authorized its public release.

The report outlines evidence of mismanagement, implicating officials from the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) and the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) in Ofili’s exclusion from the event. It specifically recommends sanctions against AFN Secretary General Rita Mosindi and Technical Director Samuel Onikeku for their alleged roles in the omission. The panel also advised that Ofili work on improving her conduct as part of broader recommendations.

Additionally, the panel addressed another controversy involving cyclist Ese Ukpeseraye, who sparked public outcry by revealing she had to rely on German support due to a lack of proper equipment. The committee demanded an apology from Ukpeseraye and advised the government to ensure timely funding and adequate equipment for Nigerian athletes.

The committee also recommended a new governance code for the NOC and National Sports Commission to prevent future lapses and urged improved anti-doping measures to maintain integrity in Nigerian sports.