Nigeria’s veteran quarter-miler Patience Okon George has described abandoning football to focus entirely on athletics as the defining decision of her sporting career.
The multiple African champion made the revelation after claiming the women’s 400 metres title at the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) Commonwealth Games Trials, reflecting on the journey that transformed her into one of Nigeria’s most accomplished track athletes.
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“Choosing athletics over football was the best decision of my life,” Okon George said.
The 34-year-old disclosed that football was her first love during her secondary school days and that she initially combined both sports before a crucial conversation with her coach changed the direction of her career.
According to Okon George, her former coach, Coach Ogunike, asked her to choose between football and athletics—a decision she admits was difficult at the time.
“At first, running wasn’t my goal because I loved football. But my coach asked me to choose one, and looking back today, I’m grateful I chose athletics,” she added.
The experienced sprinter said the decision paved the way for an illustrious career that has seen her win multiple continental titles and represent Nigeria at major international championships.
She encouraged young athletes to remain open to guidance from their coaches, stressing that one decision can completely transform a career.
“Sometimes the hardest decisions become the best ones. I’m thankful I listened because athletics has given me so much,” she stated.
Okon George remains one of Nigeria’s most decorated 400m runners and will be hoping to use her experience to inspire another strong performance as she prepares for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
