In just over two months, the enchanting city of Paris, France, will serve as the epicenter for the gathering of sporting excellence. Over 11,300 athletes from 206 nations will unite to participate in the illustrious Olympic Games, a celebration of human achievement unlike any other in history.
Among the plethora of nations to converge at Paris, Nigeria will look to make its mark on the global stage. Nigeria’s representation at this year’s summer events promises to be nothing short of remarkable.. In anticipation of the forthcoming events, Culture Custodian has curated a list of Five Nigerian athletes who have earned the esteemed privilege of competing at the Olympics.
These individuals embody the spirit of resilience, dedication, and excellence, prepared to don the colors of the Nigerian flag with pride and honor as they vie for victory on the world’s grandest sporting platform.
Anuoluwapo Opeyori
Anuoluwapo Opeyori may not be a household name to many Nigerians, but when it comes to badminton, he stands among the elite. He is among the 173 badminton players worldwide who have clinched a coveted spot at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Opeyori’s prowess is undeniable. Since 2019, he has dominated the men’s singles category in Africa, securing an impressive four African Championship titles and two African Games titles. Notably, Opeyori holds the distinction of being the first Nigerian athlete to qualify for 2 consecutive Olympic Games, having proudly represented Nigeria at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics as well.
OdunAyo Adekoroye
When it comes to epitomizing Nigerian excellence on the global stage, few can match the remarkable achievements of Odunayo Adekoroye. With two African Championship titles, a consistent presence as a medalist at World Championships, and the honor of representing Nigeria twice at the Olympics, Adekoroye stands as a beacon of athletic prowess and national pride. Now, as she prepares for yet another Olympic campaign, the coveted dream of adding an elusive Olympic medal to her already illustrious collection sits tantalizingly within reach.
Favour Ofili
Favour Ofili is seen as the promising future of Nigerian Athletics, and rightfully so. Demonstrating her versatility and speed across multiple events including the 200 meters, 400 meters, and 100 meters, she has steadily solidified her reputation as a standout runner in recent years. In a remarkable display, she clinched her spot in the women’s 200m event at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games with an awe-inspiring performance at the Tom Jones Memorial Classic, held at the James G. Pressly Stadium in Gainesville, Florida, this April. Crossing the finish line with a time of 22.33 seconds (+1.4 m/s), she not only secured her qualification but also set a new personal best, further affirming her status as a rising star in the world of athletics.
Samuel Ogazi
The new kid on the block, discovered in Kaduna, Nigeria, has captured the attention of the athletics world with his remarkable potential. In a standout performance at the SEC Outdoor Championships, while competing as a freshman for the University of Alabama, Ogazi blazed across the track, clocking an astonishing time of 44.58 seconds in the 400m event. This remarkable feat not only secured his place as the second-fastest Nigerian man in history over the distance but also earned him a coveted spot on Nigeria’s Olympic team bound for Paris. With his impressive speed and unwavering determination, Ogazi is set to make his mark on the international stage, representing Nigeria with pride and determination as he pursues Olympic glory.
Tobi Amusan
Nigerian hurdler Tobi Amusan is gearing up for a shot at Olympic glory in Paris. The 27-year-old world record holder will undoubtedly be a force to be reckoned with, aiming to add an Olympic gold medal to her already impressive collection.
Amusan recently faced off against some of the world’s best in her season debut. This competitive field included her long-time rival Kendra Harrison (USA), the Jamaican trio of Ackers Nugent, Yanique Thompson, and Demisha Roswell, as well as British champion Cindy Sember and American Anna Hall. While Amusan clocked a noteworthy 12.73 seconds, it wasn’t enough to secure the win that day, as Harrison crossed the finish line in 12.67 seconds.
However, this experience will only fuel Amusan’s determination to perform at her peak in Paris. Look for her to leave everything on the track as she chases Olympic gold.
The Super Falcons of Nigeria
The Super Falcons of Nigeria, a remarkable assembly of talented women, secured their ticket to the Olympics in a thrilling showdown against South Africa. With a determined performance, Nigeria clinched victory with a 1-0 aggregate score, highlighted by Rasheedat Ajibade’s crucial penalty goal in the first leg of the qualifiers held in Abuja. This monumental achievement marks Nigeria’s return to the Olympic Women Football stage after a 16-year absence, reigniting the nation’s fervor for women’s football and setting the stage for a triumphant comeback on the world’s grandest sporting platform.
