Nigeria has a rich sporting history, and over the years, it has produced some of the world’s finest athletes. These men have achieved great success both locally and internationally, and they have inspired a generation of young Nigerians to pursue their dreams in sports. From football to athletics, boxing to basketball, Nigerian sportsmen are making an indelible mark in their respective fields.
Below are Ten Nigerian sportsmen making waves in the world of sports.
- TOBI AMUSAN: Tobi made history in 2022 as she became the first Nigerian world champion in Athletics and a world record holder as she won gold in the 100-meter hurdle in the world championship smashing the existing record the Nigerian sweetheart won the hearts of many and made the world realize that Nigerians can do great things.
- ISRAEL ADENSANYA: Popularly known as the “Last Style Bender,” Israel Adesanya reclaimed his title after defeating Alex Pereira in April. The two-time UFC middleweight champion is a spectacle to watch, knocking out opponents with his acrobatic moves.
- VICTOR OSIMHEN: The 24-year-old Lagos-born Nigerian, constantly keeps lovers of the round leather game with his goal-scoring prowess. With the Italian Seria A league title in the bag and the golden boot in the running, Osimhen is no doubt having a good time.
- ESE BRUME: Born on January 20, 1996, the Nigerian lady specializes in the long jump and is the current Commonwealth, African, and African Junior record holder for the long jump. She is also a bronze medalist at the Olympics and a two-time medalist at the world championship.
- ARUNA QUADRI: He is one of the best table tennis players to come out of Africa. The Oyo state-born master of ping pong is the first African to be ranked among the first ten in the world. With multiple medals in the Commonwealth and African games, Aruna is no doubt a legend in the history of Table Tennis in Nigeria and the continent.
- ASISAT OSHOALA: The Spanish-based Nigerian striker, continues to churn out top performance season after season. The 2021/2022 season’s highest goal scorer in the Spanish La Liga also holds the record for the highest African Player of the Year award (women) with five won. She is also a hero of the pitch with her foundation (Asisat Oshoala Foundation) and football academy (Asisat Oshoala Academy) targeting girl child development.
- GIANNIS ANTETOKOUNMPO: Born December 6, 1994, is the Greek-Nigerian power forward of the Milwaukee Bucks and is regarded as one of the greatest power forwards in Europe. The 2021 NBA champion and NBA Finals MVP is famous for his style and skill, exciting all who love the game.
- GIFT ORBAN: The record-breaking Gent striker, is a skillful and talented player who is a pleasure to watch whenever he is on the ball. On March 15, 2023, he scored the fastest hat trick in European competition, scoring three goals in three minutes and 25 seconds, shattering Muhammad Salah’s record of six minutes and 12 seconds. The goal-scoring machine is so good that even opposition fans applaud him when he is being taken off.
- THE USMAN BROTHERS: Kamaru, and Mohamed Usman are another set of young Nigerians putting the country on the world map with their performances. Kamaru, also known as the Nigerian Nightmare, is a former UFC welterweight champion and the Ultimate Fighter 21 tournament winner. Mohamed is also a UFC fighter and picked the 10th professional win of his mixed martial art career against Junior Tafa in April.
- ANTHONY JOSHUA: Although he represents Great Britain in international events, Joshua always represents his roots whenever he can. The Nigerian flag is always seen around the ring whenever he fights. The heavyweight boxer, after some series of defeats, bounced back with a win against Jermaine Franklin in April. He is ranked among the top ten active boxers by different organizations and is undoubtedly an “Omoluwabi.”
These Nigerian sportsmen are not only bringing honour and glory to their country but have also become role models for young Nigerians aspiring to excel in sports. They have shown that with hard work, dedication, and perseverance, anything is achievable. Their achievements on the world stage have placed Nigeria on the map as a sporting nation, and their legacies will continue to inspire generations to come.
By: Simon Ojelabi
