Former Technical Director of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Sunday Adeleye, has advised Nigerian athletes considering a change of international allegiance to carefully weigh their decisions before making the move.
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Adeleye cautioned that while switching nationality can offer short-term opportunities, it may also come with long-term consequences that athletes must fully understand.
“Athletes need to clearly understand what they are getting into before switching allegiance,” Adeleye said.
“There are positives and negatives, and these decisions don’t just affect their active careers, but also life after sports.”
He noted that many countries are eager to recruit talented African athletes, but stressed that long-term welfare, post-career opportunities and national identity should be carefully considered.
“Countries will always show interest in talented athletes, but there is more to think about beyond competition,” he added.
Adeleye urged athletes to learn from past examples, citing Daniel Igali, who represented Canada internationally but later returned to Nigeria to make significant contributions to the development of wrestling in the country.
“Athletes should study examples like Daniel Igali and understand that decisions taken today can shape how they contribute to sports long after retirement,” Adeleye concluded.
He called on sports authorities and mentors to also guide young athletes properly, ensuring they make informed choices that protect both their careers and their future.
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