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Nigeria’s sporting culture has produced stars who have risen to global acclaim. These competitors have left an indelible mark across multiple sports. Nigerian stars are not only talented but have proven themselves to be winners.
This guide highlights the ten most outstanding Nigerian athletes recently recognised globally. We will reveal their remarkable accomplishments within their respective sports.
Ademola Lookman (Football)
Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman enjoyed a remarkable 2024, playing a crucial role as his side their maiden European trophy. In the final against Leverkusen, the Nigerian winger scored a hattrick to seal the win. Lookman’s hat-trick in that game marked the sixth to be scored in all UEFA final matches.
The former Everton winger’s remarkable season earned him the prestigious CAF African Footballer of the Year award. By winning the prize, Lookman became the seventh Nigerian to claim the laurel. Lookman remains in top form, as seen by his numbers this season. He has 10 Serie A goals this season with five assists.
Given his excellent performances, Atalanta are in contention for the league title this season. As a result, most bookies consider them among the top favourites to win the league. To get accurate soccer predictions about Serie A fixtures, visit the Eagle Predict.
Kanyinsola Ajayi (Sprint)
Ajayi enjoyed a breakthrough year in 2024, claiming several wins in athletics. He started his breakthrough in February by winning the SEC Championships Gold medal for the men’s 60m sprint. He also set a personal best record of 10.01 at the NCAA Championship. With that performance, Ajayi claimed the bronze medal.
He was also part of the relay team (4x100m) that won Gold at the NCAA Championship. Other notable achievements include winning his first national title at Nigeria’s Olympic Trials. In that race, he recorded a time of 10.14s.
That win qualified him for the African Championship, where he secured fourth sport. He was also part of the relay team that won the Silver medal. At the Olympics, Ajayi made it to the semi-finals. Ajayi will have more opportunities to make his mark as a new breakout star in this space.
Victor Boniface (Football)
Eccentric Bayern Leverkusen striker Boniface appears third on this list due to his title-winning performances last season. The Ondo-born striker enjoyed an excellent debut season. He scored 20 goals in 33 league games. In total, Boniface racked up 31 goals across all competitions last season. He has picked up from where he left off last term, with seven Bundesliga goals and one assist. Boniface was close to joining Al Nassr during the January window. For now, he continues to light up the Bundesliga.
Chiamaka Nnadozie (Football)
Paris FC goalie Nnadozie has become one of the top shot-stoppers in the women’s game. It has been an incredible rise for the 24-year-old goalkeeper. From humble beginnings at Rivers Angels in Port Harcourt, she has won two consecutive CAF Best Goalkeeper awards.
The first came in 2023, and she retained the laurel again in 2024. Nnadozie was crucial to Nigeria’s success at recent international outings. She was between the sticks for the Super Falcons at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. She was also in goal as Nigeria’s female football squad appeared at the 2024 Paris Olympics. At just 24, Nnadozie has a lot of time to cement her status among the elite players in female football.
Anthony Joshua (Boxing)
Joshua continues to remain a household name among heavyweights in the boxing scene. He is a two-time world champion and remains a fierce opponent to his adversaries. The Sagamu native began 2024 with a massive victory over Francis Ngannou in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. In total, he earned over $70 million in 2024. He ranks among the highest earners in professional boxing, with over $200 million in total earnings.
Joshua has been nominated for the Boxer of the Year award at the inaugural British Boxing Awards, which will take place in March 2025. In addition to boxing, Joshua is known for his philanthropic efforts and actively engages in community work.
Victor Oshimen (Football)
Any list of top Nigerian athletes would be incomplete without Oshimen. The Nigerian striker is an exceptional talent with lots to offer. Currently with Galatasaray, Victor remains a potent threat in front of goal. The former Napoli man has contributed 16 goals this season, scoring 12 and assisting four times.
Despite persistent speculation about a potential mid-season transfer, Osimhen will complete his loan at Galatasaray. Given his pedigree, we expect him to add more goals to his current tally.
David Oduduru (Athletics)
Divine Oduduru has distinguished himself as a world-class sprinter. His electrifying performances in the 100m and 200m events have been instrumental for Nigeria. Thanks to his performance, the country’s relay team finished third in a recent regional championship.
William Troost-Ekong (Football)
Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong was remarkable at AFCON 2023. He delivered outstanding leadership and provided a formidable defensive barrier for the team.
His stellar play earned him the Player of the Tournament award in Côte d’Ivoire. Furthermore, his remarkable skills led to his nomination for FIFA’s 2024 Best XI. At 31, William still has much to offer the Super Eagles. He remains a key figure in Nigerian football.
Favour Ashe & Godson Brume (Athletics)
Favour made headlines with his groundbreaking 9.99s run at the Pepsi Florida Relays, becoming the first man in 2024 to break the 10-second barrier and securing his place at the Paris Olympics.
Meanwhile, Godson became the second Nigerian sprinter, after Favour Ashe, to qualify for the Olympics in the men’s 100m, earning his spot with a 9.99s victory at the SEC Championships. Brume also contributed to Nigeria’s success, helping secure a silver medal in the men’s 4x100m relay at the African Championships.
Conclusion
Nigeria has many exceptional talents who are challenging on the global stage. As we enter 2025, we expect to see the emergence of more talents. The stars are sure to compete and outwit their opponents across various sports.
