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A list of the most popular Nigerian sports: Get to know the history of sports in Nigeria
Lenah Ann
June 20, 2024 at 10:22 AM
In most societies around the globe, sports are an aspect of life and a form of exercise and entertainment. In Nigeria, the sports industry has been growing rapidly, with many disciplines, such as football, basketball, boxing, and athletics, gaining massive popularity. Although there are some famous traditional Nigerian sports, such as Dambe and Ayo, the modern ones' popularity has overshadowed them.
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With support from the government, the Nigerian sports industry has a number of professional leagues, such as the Nigerian Professional Football League and the Nigerian Premier League. Over the years, the nation has produced some of the greatest players in various disciplines who have lifted the country's flag on the international stage.
History of sports in Nigeria
The West African country became active internationally in the 1950s when it featured in the Helsinki Olympic Games in 1952.
It had its first international achievement in 1954 at the Commonwealth Games in Cardiff when Emmanuel Ifeanjuna bagged a gold medal. Other athletes, such as Hogan Bassey and Richard Ihetu Tiger, also made history when they won in various boxing categories.
They formed the National Sports Council in 1962 and the National Sports Commission in 1971, tasked with integrating, promoting, encouraging, organising, and coordinating efforts to improve the country's performance in various disciplines.
A list of all Nigerian sports
After an in-depth analysis of various online sources, such as Come To Nigeria and Sports Foundation, here is a list of all Nigerian sports.
Athletics | Baseball | Lawn tennis | Cricket | Cycling |
Football | Chess | Ping-pong | Handball | Squash rackets |
Basketball | Badminton | Taekwondo | Weight-lifting | Rowing |
Gymnastics | Judo | Swimming | Volleyball | Wrestling |
Golf | Boxing | Hockey | Shooting | Table tennis |
Top 10 most popular Nigerian sports
The nation's culture is deeply rooted in sports, from humming stadiums to chanting basketball courts. Although soccer is the country's most famous sport, other top disciplines are popular in Nigeria. Here are the top ones ranked according to their popularity.
10. Weightlifting
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- Most famous athlete: Ruth Ogbeifo
- Estimated number of athletes: 100,000
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Over the past decade, weightlifting has gained popularity in the West African nation and is now one of the most famous, thanks to the country's strong desire for greatness and rich talent. The nation's Weightlifting Federation governs the tournaments and supports promising stars nationwide.
9. Badminton
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- Most famous athlete: Obiageli Solaja
- Estimated number of athletes: 250,000
Badminton is among the fastest-growing Nigerian sports, mainly due to its exciting rallies and competitive matches. Thanks to the local clubs and school programs, communities in the nation have been engaged, and young talents are nurtured.
8. Tennis
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- Most famous athlete: Nduka Odizor
- Estimated number of athletes: 350,000
Tennis is another game that has risen to the nation's spotlight due to its elegance and competitive spirit, which draw both players and fans. Talented tennis players have emerged due to tennis' national prominence, school programs, and thriving local clubs.
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7. Volleyball
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- Most famous athlete: Mairo Bello
- Estimated number of athletes: 450,000
Volleyball is a famous sport in Nigeria that combines collaboration and agility. Its growth is mainly credited to school tournaments and recreational leagues held all around the country. One of Nigeria's most talented volleyball players, Mairo Bello, has significantly influenced its local appeal.
6. Table tennis
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- Most famous athlete: Funke Oshonaike
- Estimated number of athletes: 400,000
Table tennis has long been famous nationwide and has attracted numerous fans from all over the country. Its fast-paced nature and skilful play by various athletes in the country led to the introduction of schools, local clubs, and competitive leagues, which have cultivated young talent.
5. Wrestling
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- Most famous athlete: Daniel Igali
- Estimated number of athletes: 300,000
Wrestling is one of the famous traditional Nigerian sports that has developed into an exciting competitive show. It has a special position in the nation's history due to its roots in regional communities and cultural traditions.
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Nigerian wrestlers, such as gold-medallist Daniel Igali, have reached incredible heights thanks to their participation in international competitions and national wrestling titles.
4. Boxing
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- Most famous athlete: Samuel Peter
- Estimated number of athletes: 800,000
In the West African nation, boxing is revered and is characterised by thrilling fights, fierce rivalries, and compelling stories. Athletes such as world heavyweight champion Samuel Peter have made a name for themselves in the boxing world, rising from modest beginnings in the local clubs to the international stage.
3. Basketball
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- Most famous athlete: Hakeem Olajuwon
- Estimated number of athletes: 500,000
Among the famous names of Nigerian sports is basketball, which has a rich history and wide popularity in the nation. Over the past two decades, the West African country has produced marvellous talents such as the NBA legend Hakeem Olajuwon, who has fostered national interest and inspired young talents.
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2. Athletics
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- Most famous athlete: Blessing Okagbare
- Estimated number of athletes: 1 million
Athletics is deeply rooted in the nation's history. Over the years, it has produced remarkable athletes who have made names for themselves in various track and field events.
Nigerian athletes, such as Blessing Okagbare, a long jumper and a sprinter, have routinely performed well in international contests, such as the World Athletics Championship and the Olympics.
1. Soccer
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- Most famous athlete: Nwankwo Kanu
- Estimated number of athletes: 3 million
Soccer is Nigeria's most popular sport, bringing people from various backgrounds together and developing a strong feeling of national pride. Thanks to the Nigerian Professional Football League, it has taken centre stage in debates, and its passion is nationwide.
The Super Eagles, the country's national team, have won the African Cup of Nations three times and have qualified for FIFA World Cup competitions on six occasions.
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Frequently asked questions
The nation started taking Nigerian sports and activities more seriously after it attained independence in 1963. In recent years, although it has had its setbacks, it has become famous worldwide. Here are the frequently asked questions about Nigerian sporting activities.
What is Nigeria's most famous sport?
Nigeria's sport is soccer, the most famous in the country. The nation's national football team participates in international competitions, and most players play for various clubs in Europe, especially in England.
What is the traditional sport in Nigeria?
The West African nation has a rich cultural heritage, much of which has been influenced by sports. Several traditional games are played in the country, such as the Hausa martial art of Dambe Boxing, which is played at festivals.
What is the oldest sport in history?
Wrestling is mankind's oldest sport, dating back to the early stages of human history. Various evidence, such as caverns in southern Europe and other regions, shows that it existed as early as 15,000 to 20,000 years ago.
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Final word
Although most of the most famous Nigerian sports are modern ones, traditional ones such as Dambe have also placed the country's name on the map. With a strong sporting culture, the West African country will continue to produce great athletes in various disciplines who will proudly represent their nation with determination and talent in the future.
READ ALSO: The history and evolution of sports in Kenya: Facts and details
Sports Brief has published an article detailing the history and evolution of sports in Kenya. Kenya is a founding member of the East African Community, and sports have been integral to its culture. Games allow Kenyans to reconnect with their history while gaining worldwide recognition. Click on the link above for more details.
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