AIU Queries AFN Over Age Discrepancies in Nigerian Athletes

The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has formally questioned the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) regarding age discrepancies for four Nigerian athletes set to compete in the World U20 Championships in Lima, Peru. The AIU suspects potential falsification of identification documents due to multiple dates of birth (DOB) used by these athletes in various competitions.

In a letter dated June 7, 2024, AIU Head Brett Clothier addressed AFN President Tonobok Ojuru Okowa and Secretary General Rita Moshindi, outlining the issue. The AIU has requested extensive documentation, including passports, birth certificates, medical and educational records, to verify the athletes' true ages. The AFN had a deadline of June 21, 2024, to provide the necessary documentation and clarify the discrepancies.

The athletes under scrutiny include a male U18 double champion and three female athletes—a sprinter, a hurdler, and a long/triple jumper—with notable variations in their recorded birth dates across different competitions.