The President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Chief Tonobok Okowa, has reaffirmed that kits supplier HiRacer will redeem the $20,000 cash reward promised to Tobi Amusan for winning silver in the women’s 100m hurdles at the ongoing 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.
Okowa gave the assurance on Monday night during a meeting with Amusan and the Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Chief Bukola Olopade, in Tokyo.
He clarified that the recent “kits drama” was merely a misunderstanding, stressing that all issues had been resolved and that the Federation remains committed to prioritizing the welfare of Nigerian athletes.
“There is no problem between Tobi and the Federation. I have worked with her for over four years,” Okowa said. “This new AFN board is responsive to athletes’ needs. We will do things differently. I again congratulated Tobi Express for her great spirit in grabbing the silver in the 100 metres hurdles final. It was a proud moment for Team Nigeria.”
Okowa disclosed that talks with HiRacer were already at an advanced stage for a more rewarding sponsorship deal that will benefit Nigerian athletes in future competitions.
He also commended Olopade and NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko for ensuring the prompt settlement of athletes’ allowances and bonuses at the championships.
Amusan’s silver medal finish remains one of the highlights of Nigeria’s campaign in Tokyo, further cementing her reputation as one of the country’s most consistent performers on the global stage.