National athletics coach Olalekan Soetan has expressed strong doubts about Nigeria’s readiness to reform its approach to athlete welfare, insisting that the system remains resistant to meaningful change.
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Speaking on the growing trend of athletes switching allegiance, Soetan said the root of the problem lies in long-standing neglect and poor treatment of athletes.
According to him, repeated calls for reform have not translated into action, leaving many athletes frustrated and disillusioned. He argued that while officials often speak about change, the reality on ground tells a different story.
“As a nation, we are not ready to change,” Soetan said. “The same problems keep repeating themselves, and the athletes are the ones paying the price.”
Soetan also cast doubt on reports suggesting that sprinter Favour Ashe left the United States after completing his studies because of personal choice.
He claimed that Ashe’s situation was more complex, alleging that the athlete encountered visa-related challenges that prevented him from returning to the US.
“People are quick to judge without knowing the full story,” he stated. “From what I understand, it wasn’t as simple as him deciding to leave. There were immigration and visa issues involved.”
The athletics coach used Ashe’s case to highlight what he described as a broader failure by authorities to protect and support Nigerian athletes during difficult moments in their careers.
He stressed that many athletes are often left to navigate critical challenges alone, without guidance or institutional backing.
Soetan was particularly critical of decision-makers in sports administration, accusing them of being disconnected from the realities athletes face.
“Those in power are often oblivious to what is really happening,” he said. “They only react when the situation becomes public, instead of putting structures in place to prevent these issues.”
He warned that unless urgent steps are taken to improve welfare, documentation support, and post-career security, more Nigerian athletes would continue to seek opportunities elsewhere. According to him, loyalty to the nation cannot be sustained on sentiment alone.
“Athletes have short careers,” Soetan added. “If they don’t feel valued, protected and supported, they will naturally look for environments where they can survive and succeed.”
Soetan concluded by urging sports authorities to confront the hard truths and begin genuine reforms, insisting that Nigeria risks losing more top talents if the current system remains unchanged.
