The Olympics hold immense importance for Nigerian sports and athletes with this year’s games in Paris no different.

The country’s first major Olympic medal was achieved at the 1964 Summer Games in Tokyo, Japan, where Nojeem Maiyegun earned a bronze in the men’s light middleweight boxing category.

Nigeria’s most remarkable football achievement occurred at the Atlanta 1996 Olympics when the Dream Team stunned the football world by defeating Brazil and Argentina on their way to winning the gold medal.

Chioma Ajunwa, however, secured a gold medal in the women’s long jump at Atlanta, becoming the first and only individual Nigerian athlete to win an Olympic gold.

The 2024 Paris Olympics kicks off on July 26, with Nigeria competing in 11 events, including football, basketball, long jump, and weightlifting.

A total of 82 Nigerian athletes will participate, and here are some Nigerian stars to watch:

Nigerian athletes to watch at Paris Olympics

TOBI AMUSAN

Leading Nigeria’s charge in the track events is Amusan, a world record holder in the 100m hurdles. With her exceptional form, Nigeria stands a strong chance of adding to its Olympic gold medal count, which currently stands at three since the country’s first participation in 1964.

ESE BRUME

Born in the year Nigeria won its first Olympic gold, the 28-year-old Brume aims to follow in Chioma Ajunwa’s footsteps by securing gold in the long jump in Paris. Brume is the current Commonwealth champion and a three-time African senior champion, holding both the Commonwealth Games record and the African long jump record.

CHUKWUEBUKA ENEKWECH

Enekwech returns to the Olympics as an African champion in the shot put event. At 31, he presents a strong medal opportunity for Nigeria.

FAVOUR ASHE

The 22-year-old Ashe recently set a new personal best with a time of 9.94s in the men’s 100m at the NCAA East Prelims. This is the fastest time in the NCAA for 2024 and the second fastest globally this year. Ashe is a promising athlete who could make a significant impact in Paris.

ASISAT OSHOALA

Following the penalty-shootout loss to England at the World Cup, the Super Falcons have a new chance to shine at the Olympics, beginning with their opening match against Brazil on July 25. As the current African Footballer of the Year, Oshoala is a key player to watch as the Super Falcons aim to make Nigeria proud. (Vanguard)

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