Nigerian athlete Favour Ofili has bounced back from a disappointing administrative error that denied her participation in the 100m event at the Paris 2024 Olympics, by qualifying for the semi-finals of the women’s 200m race.
Ofili, 21, clocked a season’s best time of 22.24 seconds to win heat 6 of the event, edging out Great Britain’s Dina Asher-Smith and Gambia’s Gina Bass-Bittaye. Her impressive performance secured her spot in the semi-finals, showcasing her resilience and determination.
Earlier in the week, Ofili expressed her frustration on social media after being informed that she would not be competing in the 100m event due to administrative failures by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria and the Nigerian Olympic Committee. She had questioned the accountability of those responsible for her lost opportunity.
In response, Nigeria’s Sports Minister, John Enoh, announced that he would investigate the circumstances surrounding Ofili’s exclusion from the 100m event.
Despite the setback, Ofili’s qualification for the 200m semi-finals is a testament to her talent and dedication, and Nigerians will be eagerly watching her progress in the competition.