Nigerian athletes have shone brightly on the global stage in 2024, achieving exceptional feats across various sports.
From football to athletics, boxing, and rugby, Nigerian sports professionals have made their mark, breaking records, winning prestigious titles, and representing their country with pride. Here’s a look at some of the standout Nigerian athletes who have excelled this year.
Ademola Lookman, the Atalanta forward, has undoubtedly been one of the most remarkable athletes of 2024. Lookman’s year was highlighted by his victory at the Confederation of African Football (CAF) African Footballer of the Year award.
This prestigious accolade makes him the sixth Nigerian player to win the honor. Lookman’s form on the pitch has been nothing short of spectacular. He played a pivotal role in Atalanta’s triumph in the Europa League, scoring a memorable hat-trick in the final.
His impressive performances continued on the international front, where he netted three goals at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), helping Nigeria secure a runner-up finish.
Another standout athlete is Kanyinsola Ajayi, who has had an incredible 2024 in athletics. Ajayi began the year by winning gold in the men’s 60m at the SEC Championships in February. His success continued outdoors, where he set a personal best of 10.01 seconds to win bronze in the 100m at the NCAA Championships.
Ajayi’s performance at the Paris Olympics was a highlight, as he stunned defending champion Marcell Jacobs to win his heat in 10.02s, reaching the semi-finals.
His achievement in the 4x100m relay, where he anchored the team to a silver medal at the African Championships, further solidified his status as one of the top sprinters in the world.
In football, William Troost-Ekong, the captain of the Super Eagles, has proven to be a stalwart leader. At the 2023 AFCON, Troost-Ekong earned the prestigious Player of the Tournament title for his commanding performances at the heart of Nigeria’s defense.
His leadership on and off the field helped guide Nigeria to one of its most successful AFCON campaigns in years. His remarkable form was further recognized with a nomination for FIFA’s 2024 Best XI, cementing his place among the world’s top defenders.
Track and field star Ese Brume has also made waves this year, continuing to dominate AFCON athletics. The African long jump record holder has remained undefeated in Africa for nearly a decade.
In 2024, she defended her African Games title with a wind-aided 6.92m leap and made history by securing her fourth African Athletics Championship title.
Brume’s consistency and excellence in the long jump have solidified her legacy as one of the greatest African athletes of all time.
These athletes represent the best of Nigerian sports, showcasing incredible talent, determination, and dedication.
As 2024 continues, their accomplishments serve as a testament to the brilliance and resilience of Nigerian athletes, and they are undoubtedly set to inspire the next generation of sports stars in the country.
