AFN board member and coach Olalekan Soetan has questioned whether Nigerian sprint hurdler Tobi Amusan should compete at the upcoming African Athletics Championships in Ghana.
Speaking on the issue, Soetan argued that for an athlete of Amusan’s stature, chasing another continental title may not be the best use of her schedule.
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“She should focus on bigger targets,” he said.
According to the athletics official, Amusan’s priorities should remain centered on global competitions such as the Olympics and the World Championships.
“The world stage is more important,” he implied.
Soetan also raised concerns about the timing and conditions surrounding the African Championships, suggesting they may not align with the athlete’s peak preparation cycle.
“It may not be ideal,” he noted.
He stressed that the continental event could instead serve as an opportunity to expose younger athletes to elite-level competition.
“Younger athletes need the exposure,” he added.
For him, risking top stars in less critical competitions may not always be the smartest long-term strategy.
“We must think carefully,” he stressed.
Amusan remains one of Nigeria’s most decorated athletes, and decisions around her competition schedule continue to attract attention.
“She has already achieved a lot,” Soetan said.
As preparations continue for upcoming athletics events, balancing performance, recovery, and long-term goals will remain crucial.
For Soetan, the message is clear.
Protect your top athletes.
Prioritize global success.
And create opportunities for the next generation.
Because in elite sport, smart planning matters just as much as talent.
