AJUNWA OUTLINES FACTORS DRIVING NIGERIAN ATHLETES TO SWITCH NATIONALITIES
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By: Fasasi Hammad
Former Olympic champion Chioma Ajunwa has blamed the increasing number of Nigerian athletes switching allegiance or relocating abroad on inadequate welfare systems and the lack of long-term security after retirement.
Speaking on the issue, Ajunwa explained that many athletes leave not out of disloyalty, but because of the difficult realities within Nigeria’s sports structure. She emphasized that athletic careers are short-lived and require assurances of stability both during and after competition.
“Athletes don’t compete forever,” she said. “Your peak years are limited, and when there is no insurance, no proper welfare, and no security after sports, people will naturally seek better opportunities elsewhere.”
The former Olympic gold medallist noted that many athletes dedicate their prime years to representing Nigeria, only to be left without support when injuries, age, or retirement end their careers. She pointed out that attention and assistance are often focused on major competitions, while long-term welfare planning is overlooked.
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According to Ajunwa, the absence of a solid support structure drives athletes to pursue opportunities abroad, where they can access improved remuneration, quality medical care, better training facilities, and post-career support systems.
She stressed that the issue is not solely financial, but also about dignity and professional respect. “Athletes need to feel valued—not only when they are winning medals, but throughout their careers. When they feel neglected, they will leave,” she said.
Ajunwa warned that the continued departure of top athletes could negatively impact Nigeria’s performance at major international competitions, including the Commonwealth Games and the Olympic Games. She noted that replacing experienced competitors is challenging, as their exit leaves gaps that emerging talents may not immediately fill.
She therefore urged sports administrators and government officials to urgently review athlete welfare policies, advocating for comprehensive insurance coverage, retirement plans, educational support, and stable income frameworks to secure athletes’ futures.
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