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The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, athlete welfare, and accountability, while addressing concerns surrounding the recently concluded Phase One National Camp for the Commonwealth Games held in Asaba.
In an official statement signed by Secretary General Israel Inwang on March 21, 2026, the federation provided clarifications on funding, athlete welfare, and allowances, following reports circulating in the public domain.
The AFN disclosed that all funds for the Asaba camping exercise were duly approved and disbursed by the National Sports Commission (NSC) through its Treasurer, in line with established financial procedures.
The federation firmly denied any allegations of financial mismanagement, stressing that all expenditures were collectively approved by authorised officials, with records available for review by relevant oversight bodies.
On concerns about living conditions, the AFN stated that athletes and officials were accommodated in a well-rated hotel facility deemed suitable for the size and duration of the camp.
According to the federation, the venue, alongside training facilities, was inspected and approved by top officials, including the President, Secretary General, Technical Director, and Athletes’ Representative before the camp commenced.
The AFN also dismissed claims of poor welfare, including reports of inadequate feeding and lack of electricity, describing such allegations as inaccurate. It added that feeding arrangements met required nutritional standards, with additional provisions personally supported by the federation’s leadership to ensure athletes’ comfort.
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The federation confirmed that all athletes and coaches have now received their full entitlements.
Athletes were paid ₦100,000 as transport allowance and ₦75,000 as camp allowance, while coaches received ₦100,000 each for transport and camp allowances.
Although delays were experienced during the camp, the AFN attributed this to third-party processing issues, noting that the matter was promptly resolved. It emphasised that athletes were prioritised in line with its Athlete-First policy.
Addressing a viral video showing athletes expressing dissatisfaction, the federation clarified that it was recorded during the period of delayed payments.
While acknowledging the concerns raised, the AFN said the video reflected a temporary situation which has since been resolved, urging the public to consider the context.
Reiterating its Athlete-First policy, the federation maintained that athlete welfare remains central to its operations, highlighting proactive facility inspections, prioritised payments, and swift resolution of challenges during the camp.
The AFN called on media organisations and the public to verify information through official channels, stressing its continued focus on developing athletics in Nigeria and supporting athletes to achieve global success.
