The year 2024 unfolded as a remarkable chapter for Nigerian sports, brimming with achievements and challenges showcasing athletes’ resilience and determination across various disciplines.
Nigeria’s sporting spirit was on full display from football to boxing, and basketball to para-sports.
Here’s a recap of the most significant events shaping Nigeria’s sporting landscape, highlighting triumphs and trials.
1. Nigeria’s Paralympic Heroics
At the 2024 Paris Games, Nigeria’s Paralympic team delivered an outstanding performance, securing seven medals: two gold, three silver, and two bronze. Folashade Oluwafemiayo shattered the world record with a 166 kg lift in para-powerlifting, while Isau Ogunkunle and Flora Ugwunwa added to the country’s medal tally, reaffirming Nigeria’s status as a global para-sport powerhouse.
2. Super Eagles Stranded in Libya
Nigeria’s Super Eagles endured a 17-hour ordeal at Al Abraq Airport in Libya before their 2025 AFCON qualifier. Players, including Victor Osimhen and William Troost-Ekong, expressed outrage over the lack of food, water, and communication access. The delay, reportedly caused by fuel supply issues, sparked diplomatic interventions. The Confederation of African Football later awarded Nigeria a 3-0 victory, citing Libya’s breach of AFCON regulations.
3. Anthony Joshua’s Knockout Defeat
Hopes for Anthony Joshua’s heavyweight resurgence were dashed as Daniel Dubois delivered a knockout blow at Wembley Stadium. The defeat, Joshua’s second career knockout, dimmed his chances of reclaiming a world title for the third time and marked a challenging year for the boxing icon.
4. D’Tigress Shine at Paris 2024
Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, made history by reaching the quarterfinals at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Led by Murjanatu Musa and coached by Rena Wakama, the team’s tenacity and defensive prowess earned them accolades. Wakama was named Best Coach of the Women’s Olympic Basketball Tournament, capping a historic campaign.
5. Lookman Wins CAF Player of the Year Award
Ademola Lookman became the seventh Nigerian to win the prestigious African Player of the Year award at the 2024 CAF Awards in Marrakech. The Atalanta forward had an exceptional year, scoring three goals and providing two assists as Nigeria reached the AFCON final. His hat-trick also secured Atalanta the UEFA Europa League title.
6. Nigeria Falls to Ivory Coast in AFCON Final
Nigeria’s quest for a fourth AFCON title ended in heartbreak as hosts Ivory Coast defeated the Super Eagles 2-1 in Abidjan. Despite an early goal from William Troost-Ekong, the Ivorians staged a dramatic comeback, with Franck Kessie and Sebastien Haller sealing their victory. The loss was a bitter pill for Nigeria, but it underscored their resilience on the continental stage.
7. Finidi George Steps Down as Super Eagles Coach
In June, Finidi George resigned as Super Eagles coach, citing insufficient support from the Nigeria Football Federation. His tenure included mixed results, such as a 2-2 draw with South Africa. Disillusioned by the NFF’s decision to seek his replacement without consultation, Finidi stepped down. Interim coach Austin Eguavoen has since taken charge, with growing calls for his permanent appointment.