Nigerian athletes have raised serious concerns over unpaid allowances and substandard welfare conditions following a recent pre-Commonwealth Games training camp in Asaba. The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has firmly denied the allegations of misconduct or mismanagement.
Team Nigeria Athletics Intensifies Commonwealth Games Preparations In Asaba
The Phase One National Camp, which lasted six weeks and served as preparation for the upcoming Commonwealth Games, recently concluded. Athletes and coaches were reportedly dismissed without receiving their full entitlements. Many received only between ₦75,000 and ₦100,000 as transport support upon departure, an amount they described as grossly inadequate given the duration of their stay.
Additional grievances included poor feeding arrangements, substandard accommodation with inconsistent electricity, and limited access to basic amenities. A viral video circulating online captured the frustration of protesting athletes during the payment delays, highlighting tensions at the camp’s end.
Team Nigeria Intensify Commonwealth Games Preparations in Asaba – Africa Top Sports
In response, the AFN issued an official statement rejecting the claims as “inaccurate and misleading.” The federation emphasized that all funds were properly approved and disbursed through the National Sports Commission, with full accountability and available records for verification.
The AFN denied any diversion or misuse of funds and refuted allegations of poor living conditions, stating that athletes were housed in a reputable hotel and trained in inspected, approved facilities. It attributed payment delays to third-party processing issues rather than negligence. The federation confirmed that all athletes and coaches have now been fully paid, with athletes prioritized under its “Athlete-First Policy.”
Olopade Believes Training Grants Will Bring Better Results For Nigeria At Forthcoming Commonwealth Games | Sports247 Nigeria
The AFN described the viral video as capturing only a momentary delay and insisted the camp overall met acceptable standards. It reaffirmed its commitment to athlete welfare and optimal performance ahead of major international competitions, including the Commonwealth Games.
This incident underscores ongoing challenges in athlete welfare and funding transparency in Nigerian sports, even as preparations intensify for global events.
