Favour Ofili: Life story of the Nigerian sprint queen

Favour Chukwuka Ofili, popularly known as ‘Star Girl’ is a Nigerian sprint sensation who has quickly risen to become one of the most influential female athletes from Africa.

She has captivated the world with her lightning speed, fierce determination, and record-breaking performances on the track.

Profile summary

Name: Favour Chukwuka Ofili

Born: December 31, 2002

Place of birth: Rivers State

State of origin: Delta

Education: Louisiana State University (LSU)

Relationship status: Single

Career: Athlete

Background

Born on December 31, 2002 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State Ofili hails from Delta State and was raised in a supportive Nigerian household where discipline, faith, and education were highly valued.

Though not much is publicly known about her parents’ identities, Ofili has often credited her family’s encouragement and the mentorship of her early coaches for helping shape her athletic journey.

Her talent was first discovered by Coach Anne Otutu while she was still in secondary school in Delta State.

Favour is the second of five siblings, and her strong family values have remained central to her success.

In several interviews, she’s spoken about the emotional strength she draws from her mother, who is her “prayer warrior,” and her siblings who continue to support her from home while she competes internationally.

Education

Favour completed her early education in Delta State before earning a scholarship to Louisiana State University (LSU) in the United States.

There, she majored in Sport and Fitness Administration/Management while competing for the LSU Lady Tigers track and field team.

Her move to LSU was a major turning point—she received world-class coaching under Dennis Shaver, improved her personal records, and emerged as a force in collegiate athletics.

She graduated in December 2023, becoming not only a champion on the track but also a role model in education.

Professional career

After graduating from LSU, Favour Ofili turned professional and signed a sponsorship deal with Adidas in 2023.

Her brand appeal is built on authenticity, performance, and a vibrant personality that resonates with fans globally.

She has also become a regular face in elite international events like the Diamond League and World Athletics series, competing with and often beating the best in the world.

Athletic achievements

Ofili’s career is a highlight reel of achievements:

• First Nigerian woman to run under 22 seconds in the 200 meters (21.96s, 2022).
• World U20 medalist: Gold (4x400m), bronze (200m & 4x100m) at the 2021 World U20 Championships in Nairobi.
• Silver medalist in the 200m at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.
• African indoor record holder in the 200m (22.11s).
• Set a world record in the 150m (15.85s) at the 2025 Adidas Atlanta City Games.
• Represented Nigeria at the 2024 Paris Olympics, finishing 6th in the 200m final in her Olympic debut.

Despite qualifying for the 100m event in Paris, an administrative error by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) led to her name being omitted from the event—an emotional blow for the sprinter.

Following an investigation, it was recommended that she be compensated ₦8 million for the psychological impact of the oversight.

Net worth

Favour Ofili’s net worth is  currently estimated to be between $400,000 and $700,000, based on earnings from professional competitions, endorsement deals (primarily Adidas), appearance fees, and prize money.

Her income is expected to grow significantly in the coming years as her influence expands and more brand deals follow.