Nigeria experienced an exhilarating 2024 in sports, as athletes across various disciplines achieved remarkable victories and faced significant challenges on the international stage.
From football to boxing, Nigeria’s Super Eagles, Paralympic champions, and D’Tigress captivated audiences, embodying the indomitable spirit of Nigerian sports.
This recap highlights pivotal events that defined the sporting scene, showcasing both individual and collective accomplishments.
- Lookman Clinches CAF Player of the Year Award
Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman earned the title of African Player of the Year during the 2024 CAF Awards in Marrakech, Morocco. This recognition marked him as the seventh Nigerian to receive this esteemed honor, continuing Nigeria’s strong legacy in the category following Victor Osimhen’s win last year.
Lookman’s outstanding performance included three goals and two assists, helping Nigeria reach the Africa Cup of Nations final for the eighth time. His hat-trick also propelled Atalanta to a UEFA Europa League title victory against Bayer Leverkusen.
- Controversy as Super Eagles Stranded in Libya
Nigeria’s Super Eagles faced significant delays, spending over 17 hours stranded at Al Abraq Airport in Libya prior to their 2025 AFCON qualifier. Key players, including Victor Osimhen and Leon Balogun, voiced their frustration over the lack of basic necessities such as food, water, and communication. The situation arose due to fuel supply issues for their airline, and the Nigerian government swiftly condemned their treatment.
Despite the Libyan Football Association denying any wrongdoing, the Confederation of African Football awarded Nigeria a 3-0 victory in the abandoned qualifier, ruling that Libya violated AFCON regulations.
- Nigeria Falls to Ivory Coast in AFCON Final
In a dramatic finale, Ivory Coast claimed their third Africa Cup of Nations title, defeating Nigeria 2-1 at the Ebimpe Olympic Stadium in Abidjan. After an early goal from Nigeria’s William Troost-Ekong, the hosts responded with a remarkable comeback, with Franck Kessie equalizing and Sebastien Haller securing the win.
This victory not only marked a significant triumph for Ivory Coast but also served as a setback for Nigeria, which aimed to reestablish its dominance in African football.
- Finidi George Exits as Super Eagles Coach
Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George announced his resignation in June, citing insufficient support from the Nigeria Football Federation. Despite overseeing a draw against South Africa and a loss to Benin Republic, Finidi expressed disappointment over the lack of communication regarding his replacement. Interim coach Austin Eguavoen has since taken the reins, with calls for his permanent appointment increasing.
- Osimhen’s Transfer Transition
Victor Osimhen’s long-awaited transfer culminated in a four-month loan to Turkish club Galatasaray from Napoli. His move follows considerable interest from various European clubs. Osimhen’s decision to leave came despite signing a new contract with Napoli, amid spirited welcomes from enthusiastic Galatasaray fans.
The striker’s social media exchange with former coach Finidi George stirred debate in Nigerian football, following allegations questioning his commitment to the national team after he withdrew from the World Cup qualifiers due to injury.
- Lookman Makes Europa League History
Ademola Lookman made headlines as the first player to score a hat-trick in a UEFA Europa League final. His impressive performance led Atalanta to a 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen, ending the latter’s 51-match unbeaten streak.
- Nigeria’s Paralympic Success
Nigeria’s Paralympic team excelled at the Paris 2024 Games, securing a total of seven medals, including two gold, three silver, and two bronze. Notably, Folashade Oluwafemiayo set a world record in para-powerlifting, adding to Nigeria’s growing reputation in para-sport.
- D’Tigress Make History at Paris 2024
Nigeria’s D’Tigress achieved a historic milestone by reaching the basketball quarterfinals for the first time at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Led by Murjanatu Musa, who showcased impressive averages, the team displayed commendable defense and notable victories against top-tier competition, earning recognition for their remarkable performance.
- Anthony Joshua’s Setback in Heavyweight Boxing
Anthony Joshua faced a crushing defeat in his quest to reclaim heavyweight supremacy, suffering a knockout loss to Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium. The loss marked a significant challenge for Joshua, as he seeks to reclaim a world title.
