Kits supplier HiRacer has confirmed its commitment to redeem the cash reward of $20,000 promised to Nigeria’s sprint hurdler, Tobi Amusan, for winning silver at the ongoing 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.

The assurance was given by the President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Chief Tonobok Okowa, during a meeting in Tokyo on Monday night with Amusan and the Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Chief Bukola Olopade.

Okowa stressed that the company was already in advanced discussions with the Federation, not only to fulfil its promise to Amusan but also to secure a more rewarding long-term kits sponsorship deal for Nigerian athletes.

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“According to Okowa, the kits supplier, HiRacer is prepared to redeem the cash reward of $20,000 to Amusan for her silver medal and discussions with the company have reached an advanced stage for a more rewarding kits sponsorship deal.”

He dismissed reports of friction between Amusan and the AFN, describing the situation as a brief misunderstanding that had since been resolved.

“There is no problem between Tobi and the Federation. I have worked with her for more than four years. It was just a moment of misunderstanding. This new AFN board is responsive to our athlete’s needs. We will do things differently. At the meeting, I again congratulated Tobi Express for her great spirit to grab the silver in the 100 metres hurdles final. It was a moment of pride for Team Nigeria,” Okowa said.

The AFN boss also commended the NSC leadership for ensuring that athletes’ allowances and bonuses at the championships were promptly settled. He expressed gratitude to the Director-General, Bukola Olopade, and the NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, for their support in prioritising athletes’ welfare.