2024 proved a thrilling year for Nigerian sports, as athletes across diverse disciplines soared to triumphs and tackled challenges on the global stage.
From football to boxing, Nigeria’s Super Eagles, Paralympic champions, and D’Tigress made headlines, showcasing the unwavering spirit of Nigerian athletes.
This recap highlights some of the most significant events that shaped the sporting landscape, reflecting individual and collective achievements.
- Lookman wins CAF Player of the Year Award
Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman was crowned African Player of the Year at the 2024 CAF Awards in Marrakech, Morocco, on Monday.
Lookman’s triumph made him the seventh Nigerian to win the prestigious award and upheld Nigeria’s impressive record in the category following Victor Osimhen’s victory last year.
The Atalanta striker had a stellar year, scoring three goals and providing two assists as Nigeria reached their eighth Africa Cup of Nations final in February. His hat-trick also secured the UEFA Europa League title for Atalanta against Bayer Leverkusen in May.
- Super Eagles stranded in Libya
Nigeria’s Super Eagles were stranded for over 17 hours at Al Abraq Airport in Libya ahead of their 2025 AFCON qualifier against Libya. Players including Victor Osimhen, Leon Balogun, and William Troost-Ekong expressed outrage over being denied essential amenities, including food, water, and communication access. The diversion to the remote Al Abraq Airport — over 200 kilometres from Benghazi — was reportedly due to fuel supply issues for their carrier, ValueJet.
Libyan authorities’ refusal to provide jet fuel was cited as the cause of the delays. The Nigerian government, through the Foreign Affairs Minister and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, swiftly intervened, condemning the treatment and calling for accountability. However, the Libyan Football Association denied allegations of sabotage, attributing the issue to logistical challenges.
The Confederation of African Football Disciplinary Committee subsequently awarded Nigeria a 3-0 victory in the abandoned qualifier, ruling that Libya breached Article 31 of the AFCON Regulations and Articles 82 and 151 of the CAF Disciplinary Code.
- Nigeria falls to Ivory Coast in AFCON final
Ivory Coast claimed their third Africa Cup of Nations title defeating Nigeria 2-1 in front of a jubilant home crowd at the Ebimpe Olympic Stadium, Abidjan.
Despite an early goal from Nigeria’s William Troost-Ekong, the hosts mounted a comeback, with Franck Kessie equalising in the second half and Sebastien Haller scoring a late winner. Ivory Coast’s triumph marked a stunning turnaround after a poor group stage, a coaching change, and tough knockout matches.
The victory made Ivory Coast the first host nation to win AFCON since 2006, equalling Nigeria’s record of three titles. The loss was a tough blow for Nigeria, who had hoped to reclaim their dominance in African football.
- Finidi George steps down as Super Eagles coach
Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George resigned in June, citing a lack of support from the Nigeria Football Federation. Finidi, who succeeded Jose Peseiro, oversaw a 2-2 draw against South Africa and a 1-2 defeat to Benin Republic during his brief tenure.
In an interview, Finidi expressed frustration over inadequate backing from the NFF and their decision to search for his replacement without consulting him. Despite attempts at reconciliation, including a meeting with the Sports Minister, Finidi felt disrespected and opted to step down. Interim coach Austin Eguavoen has since taken charge, with calls for his permanent appointment growing.
- Osimhen’s transfer saga
Victor Osimhen’s long-running transfer saga concluded with a four-month loan move to Turkish giants Galatasaray from Napoli. Osimhen became the sixth Nigerian to play for the club after attracting interest from European sides, including Chelsea, and Saudi Arabian clubs.
Despite signing a new contract with Napoli, Osimhen requested to leave during the summer window. Thousands of Galatasaray fans warmly welcomed him, eager to see him in action.
Victor Osimhen’s social media outburst against former Super Eagles coach Finidi George ignited widespread debate in Nigerian football. Finidi allegedly questioned Osimhen’s commitment to the national team after the striker pulled out of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers due to injury.
Osimhen disputed Finidi’s remarks, claiming he had informed the coach of his injury status while in Germany. The fallout divided fans, with Osimhen refusing to back down.
- Lookman makes Europa League history
Lookman made history as the first player to score a hat-trick in a UEFA Europa League final. His three goals led Atalanta to a stunning 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen, ending the German side’s 51-match unbeaten run.
Lookman’s brilliance secured Atalanta’s first major title since 1963, with the striker delivering a standout performance at the Dublin Arena.
- Nigeria’s paralympic heroics
Nigeria’s Paralympic team claimed seven medals (two gold, three silver, and two bronze) at the 2024 Paris Games, solidifying their position as a global para-sport powerhouse. Folashade Oluwafemiayo broke a world record with a 166 kg lift in para-powerlifting, while Isau Ogunkunle and Flora Ugwunwa added to Nigeria’s medal tally.
- D’Tigress shine at Paris 2024
D’Tigress [Credit: X | D’Tigress]Nigeria’s D’Tigress made history at the Paris 2024 Olympics by reaching the basketball quarterfinals for the first time. Led by Murjanatu Musa, who averaged 10.7 points and 6.7 rebounds per game, the team impressed with tenacious defence and notable wins over Australia.
Rena Wakama was named Best Coach of the Women’s Olympic Basketball Tournament, highlighting D’Tigress’ turnaround from their winless performance in Tokyo 2020.
- Anthony Joshua’s knockout defeat
Anthony Joshua’s hopes of reclaiming heavyweight glory were dashed after a knockout loss to Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium. Dubois, the IBF heavyweight champion, knocked Joshua down twice before delivering the decisive blow in the fifth round.
The defeat marks Joshua’s second career knockout loss, dimming his chances of regaining a world title for the third time.
