Nigeria’s sporting landscape has witnessed remarkable achievements in recent years, with athletes excelling across various disciplines on the international stage. These accomplishments not only highlight individual talents but also serve as a testament to the nation’s growing prominence in global sports. From the electrifying tracks to the dynamic courts and beyond, Nigerian athletes are making their mark, inspiring pride and unity among citizens.
Track and Field – Sprinting to Global Recognition
Amusan’s World Hurdles Triumph
Tobi Amusan has solidified her status as a global sprint hurdles sensation. At the 2024 World Athletics Championships in Budapest, she clinched the gold medal in the women’s 100m hurdles, clocking a time of 12.34 seconds. This victory not only reaffirmed her dominance in the sport but also marked her second consecutive world title, following her success in Eugene in 2022. Amusan’s consistent performance underscores Nigeria’s strength in track and field athletics.
Brume’s Long Jump Excellence
Ese Brume continues to shine in the long jump arena. In 2024, she secured a silver medal at the World Athletics Championships with a leap of 7.05 meters, narrowly missing the gold. Her achievements also include a bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, further cementing her position among the world’s elite long jumpers. Brume’s dedication and prowess have brought Nigeria to the forefront of global athletics.
Basketball – D’Tigress Making History
Historic Olympic Quarter-Final Appearance
At the Paris 2024 Olympics, Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, made history by becoming the first African team—male or female—to reach the quarter-finals of the Olympic basketball tournament. Their journey included a stunning victory over Canada in the group stages, showcasing their resilience and skill. Although they faced a challenging match against the USA in the quarter-finals, their performance was a significant milestone for African basketball.
Para-Sports – Breaking Barriers
Oluwafemiayo’s Record-Breaking Powerlifting
Folashade Oluwafemiayo achieved a groundbreaking feat at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games by lifting 167kg in the women’s over 86kg para-powerlifting category, setting a new world record. This remarkable achievement not only earned her a gold medal but also highlighted Nigeria’s prowess in para-sports. Oluwafemiayo’s dedication and excellence continue to inspire athletes worldwide.
Football – Global Impact
Lookman’s Stellar Season
Ademola Lookman had an outstanding 2024 season, earning the Confederation of African Football (CAF) African Footballer of the Year award. Playing for Atalanta in Serie A, Lookman scored 17 goals and provided 11 assists, leading his team to a top-four finish. His performance in the Europa League final, where he scored a hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen, further solidified his reputation as one of Africa’s top footballers.
Boxing – Oshoba’s Historic Victory
First Nigerian Female World Champion
Elizabeth Oshoba made history by becoming the first Nigerian female boxer to win a world title. In 2024, she secured the World Boxing Council (WBC) Silver Featherweight Championship in Copenhagen, Denmark. Oshoba’s victory not only marked a personal achievement but also paved the way for future generations of female boxers in Nigeria, highlighting the nation’s growing presence in the global boxing arena.
Cricket – U-19 Women Making Their Mark
Historic World Cup Debut
Nigeria’s Under-19 women’s cricket team made a significant impact at the 2025 ICC Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup. In their debut appearance, they secured a thrilling six-run victory over Ireland, showcasing their potential on the international stage. This achievement marks a new chapter for Nigerian cricket, with the youth team setting the foundation for future success in the sport.
Winter Sports – Breaking New Ground
Trailblazing at the Winter Olympics
In 2018, Nigeria made history by participating in the Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea. Seun Adigun, Akuoma Omeoga, and Ngozi Onwumere represented the nation in the women’s bobsleigh event, while Simidele Adeagbo competed in the skeleton. Their participation marked Nigeria’s debut in winter sports, inspiring a new generation of athletes to pursue diverse sporting disciplines.
Institutional Support – Strengthening the Foundation
Revival of the National Sports Commission
In 2024, the Nigerian government reinstated the National Sports Commission (NSC), signaling a renewed commitment to sports development. Under the leadership of Shehu Dikko and Director General Bukola Olopade, the NSC has focused on enhancing athlete welfare, improving infrastructure, and fostering grassroots participation. This strategic move aims to create a sustainable sports ecosystem that supports athletes at all levels.
The achievements of Nigerian athletes across various sports disciplines in recent years have not only brought pride to the nation but also positioned Nigeria as a formidable force in global sports. With continued institutional support, investment in infrastructure, and nurturing of talent, the future looks promising for Nigerian sports. These successes serve as a testament to the resilience, determination, and excellence inherent in Nigerian athletes, inspiring future generations to reach new heights.
