Nigeria’s sprint hurdler, Tobi Amusan, has called for recognition and rewards after winning silver in the 100m hurdles at the recently concluded World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.
Amusan emerged as the only Nigerian athlete to secure a podium finish at the global event, but she lamented that her effort has not yet been matched with the level of acknowledgment given to Nigeria’s victorious football and basketball teams.
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“It would be nice if my team and I are rewarded the same way the Super Falcons and D’Tigress were after winning their tournaments,” Amusan said. “We also sacrificed a lot to represent the country, and it is not easy standing on the podium at the world stage.”
The 2022 world champion and record holder explained that athletes put in long hours of training, often under difficult circumstances, and deserve to be recognized when they succeed. “People only see the medal moment, but they don’t see the years of work behind it. All we ask is to be appreciated in a tangible way,” she noted.
Amusan also stressed that recognition goes beyond financial benefits. “Yes, monetary rewards are good, but for me, it is also about encouragement and showing that Nigeria values all sports, not just football,” she said.
Her call has been echoed by athletics fans and stakeholders, who believe the government must balance support across different sports. Some argue that consistent motivation for athletes in individual events could help Nigeria build a stronger base ahead of the Paris 2028 Olympics.
Amusan concluded by pledging to continue working hard despite the challenges. “We will keep pushing and making the country proud. But I hope this time, we are not forgotten,” she added.
