Despite better offers and treatment abroad, Nigeria’s sprint icon Mary Onyali says loyalty to her country came first—even when four nations tried to lure her away.
Five-time Olympian Mary Onyali-Omagbemi has revealed that she turned down offers from four different countries during her illustrious athletics career, choosing instead to remain loyal to Nigeria.
The Atlanta 1996 Olympic bronze medallist said athlete defections are not a new trend, noting that nationality switches have happened across generations. But for her, representing Nigeria was a personal and emotional decision that went beyond convenience or better welfare.
She admitted that while competing at the highest level, several countries approached her with attractive offers, but she simply could not bring herself to abandon her homeland.
According to her, the decision to represent another country often depends on personal priorities, especially when athletes face welfare challenges. Onyali acknowledged that poor support systems have pushed some athletes to switch allegiance, but she expressed optimism that reforms in Nigeria’s sports administration are beginning to address those issues.
She pointed to ongoing efforts to improve athlete welfare and performance, including structured reforms and grassroots initiatives designed to nurture future champions and restore Nigeria’s athletics glory.
The sprint legend stressed that success at the Olympic level requires long-term planning, patience, and serious investment, explaining that it can take up to three Olympic cycles—about 12 years—to develop a podium-level athlete.
She also emphasised that funding, discipline, and commitment are critical ingredients for success, expressing confidence that with sustained reforms and proper investment, Nigeria can reclaim its place among the world’s leading athletics nations.
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