AFN Opens Zonal Election Race as Visa Crisis Threatens World Relays Plans
By IDNN Athletics Bureau
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has released its election timetable as part of preparations for its 2025 elective congress. However, the announcement comes amid growing uncertainty over Nigeria’s participation at the World Athletics Relays in China, due to a recent visa crisis.
🗳️ Zonal Elections Set for May 14–16
According to AFN Secretary General Israel Inwang, the zonal elections will hold between May 14 and 16 across all six geopolitical zones. Forms are available online and at the AFN Secretariat in Abuja. The deadline for submission is May 12.
This election will help decide zonal representatives ahead of the main elective congress, whose date and venue remain undisclosed. AFN has already sent circulars to state directors of sports, federation chairmen, and other key stakeholders to mobilize participation.
“Let us finish with the business of the zonal elections first,” Inwang said, when pressed for the congress date.
🇳🇬 Relays in Doubt as Visa Delays Hit Athletes
While the AFN is preparing for elections, it is also battling to keep Nigeria’s relay hopes alive on the international stage.
The 2025 World Relays, scheduled for May 10–11 in Guangzhou, China, almost slipped beyond reach as Nigerian athletes — particularly those based in the U.S. — faced visa rejections from the Chinese embassy.
NSC Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade confirmed that the issue wasn’t the fault of the AFN or Nigerian authorities. According to him, all paperwork and funding were submitted early.
“This is not a Nigerian failure — it’s a global systems failure,” Olopade said.
He revealed that seven U.S.-based athletes had their visas denied, while home-based athletes were already cleared.
Diplomacy and Protest
Olopade said the AFN has filed a formal protest with World Athletics, requesting a qualifying exemption or pass. He also called out the international body for failing to ensure fair access for all competitors.
“We acted swiftly and professionally. The athletes deserve better,” he added.
Efforts are ongoing to get the stranded athletes on flights from Los Angeles to China, though it remains unclear whether they will arrive in time.
Despite the crisis, Team Nigeria’s 17-athlete delegation remains hopeful. They’re expected to compete in four categories: Men’s 4x100m, Women’s 4x100m, Mixed 4x100m, and Mixed 4x400m.
