The year 2024 was a mixed bag of emotions for Nigerian sports, with moments of triumph and significant challenges for everyone.
While Nigerian sports saw moments of brilliance in 2024, recurring issues like poor administration, funding challenges, and doping controversies overshadowed these successes. The year highlighted the need for systemic reforms to ensure sustained progress and success in Nigerian sports.
These events sparked discussions about the future of Nigerian sports and the necessary steps to address the challenges faced by athletes and administrators alike.
Highs of Nigerian Sports in 2024
D’Tigress’ historic Olympic performance
D’Tigress made history by becoming the first African women’s basketball team to reach the Olympic quarterfinals, a feat that drew global recognition.
Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, had a memorable outing against heavyweights like Australia, France, and Canada, with Coach Rena Wakama clinching the best coach award.
To everyone’s surprise, the D’Tigress beat Australia on the first day, their first-ever group stage win at the Olympics.
Although they lost to France, they bounced back to surprise Canada, earning a ticket to the knockout stages and becoming the first African basketball team, male or female, to play in the Olympic quarterfinals.
Ademola Lookman’s CAF Award
Ademola Lookman experienced a remarkable year in 2024, marked by significant achievements both at the club and international levels.
In December 2024, Lookman was honoured with the CAF African Footballer of the Year award. His exceptional performances for both Atalanta and the Nigerian national team were key factors in this recognition.
On May 22, 2024, Lookman delivered a standout performance in the UEFA Europa League final, scoring a hat-trick to lead Atalanta to a 3–0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen. This victory secured Atalanta’s first European title and ended Leverkusen’s unbeaten run in the competition.
Throughout the 2023–24 Serie A season, Lookman was instrumental in Atalanta’s offensive lineup, netting 11 goals and providing 5 assists. His consistent performance has been pivotal in Atalanta’s strong league position.
Lookman played a crucial role in Nigeria’s journey to the AFCON final, scoring three goals during the tournament. His contributions were vital in propelling Nigeria to the final stages of the competition.
His outstanding performances have not only earned him individual accolades but have also elevated his profile in European football.
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