The 2024 Paris Olympics, commencing on July 26, are set to be a landmark event for Nigerian sports, with the country participating in 11 events across various disciplines.
With a history of notable Olympic achievements, Nigeria is poised to make its mark once again in the global sporting arena.
Nigeria’s Olympic journey began in 1964 when Nojeem Maiyegun earned the country’s first major Olympic medal—a bronze in the men’s light middleweight boxing category at the Tokyo Games.
The nation’s most remarkable football accomplishment came in 1996 at the Atlanta Olympics, where the Dream Team captured gold by defeating Brazil and Argentina.
Chioma Ajunwa also made history at the same Games, securing a gold medal in the women’s long jump—Nigeria’s only individual Olympic gold to date.
This year, Nigeria will be represented by 82 athletes across multiple sports, including football, basketball, long jump, and weightlifting. The following athletes are among the key contenders expected to shine:
Tobi Amusan
Tobi Amusan, a world record holder in the 100m hurdles, is set to lead Nigeria’s track and field team.
Amusan’s exceptional performance and form position her as a strong contender for adding to Nigeria’s Olympic medal tally.
Her participation is highly anticipated, with hopes of continuing Nigeria’s track and field legacy of success.
Ese Brume
Ese Brume, who was born in the year Nigeria won its first Olympic gold, aims to replicate Chioma Ajunwa’s success by clinching gold in the long jump.
The 28-year-old is the current Commonwealth champion and a three-time African senior champion. Brume holds both the Commonwealth Games record and the African long jump record, making her a formidable competitor in Paris.
Chukwuebuka Enekwech
Returning to the Olympics as the African champion in the shot put, Chukwuebuka Enekwech, at 31, is expected to deliver a strong performance.
His previous achievements and current form offer a promising chance for Nigeria to secure another medal in this event.
Favour Ashe
Favour Ashe, a rising star in track and field, recently set a personal best of 9.94s in the men’s 100m at the NCAA East Prelims, marking the fastest time in the NCAA for 2024 and the second-fastest globally this year.
The 22-year-old sprinter is a promising prospect who could significantly impact Nigeria’s Olympic results.
Asisat Oshoala
Asisat Oshoala, the current African Footballer of the Year, is a key player for the Super Falcons. Following a penalty-shootout loss to England at the World Cup, the team looks forward to the Olympic Games with renewed vigor.
The Super Falcons will kick off their campaign with a match against Brazil on July 25, and Oshoala’s performance will be crucial for Nigeria’s football aspirations in Paris.
As the Olympics approach, the anticipation for Nigeria’s participation is palpable. With a blend of experienced athletes and emerging stars, the country’s athletes are ready to compete fiercely and potentially add to Nigeria’s rich Olympic history.
Fans can catch all Nigerian track and field events live on SuperSport via DStv and GOtv.
The 2024 Paris Olympics promise to be a stage where Nigeria’s athletic prowess will be on full display, showcasing both the legacy and future of Nigerian sports.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
