Athletes of Nigerian heritage shine in Paris Olympics

Team Nigeria’s poor performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics has ignited a firestorm of criticism, with many describing it as the country’s most lackluster Olympic showing in recent times.

This is even as Senator John Owan-Enoh’s position as Sports Minister is under increasing pressure following Nigeria’s disappointing performance at the Paris Olympics, with many calling for his dismissal.

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From D’Tigress’ denied entry to the event’s opening ceremony, crashing out of the Olympic Games after losing 88-74 to the United States of America in the quarterfinals of the women’s basketball event, Favour Ofili’s omission in the 100-metre race, cyclist Ese Ukpeseraye borrowing bicycle from Team German, World Record holder, Tobi Amusan, failing to qualify for the final of the 100m hurdles event to Nigerian relay team disqualified for violating World Athletics’ competition rule in the 4x400m men’s relay, it has been from one tale of disappointment to another.

Although Nigeria’s Olympic contingent is still searching for its first medal, individuals of Nigerian descent have achieved success and recognition competing for other states.

Checks by The Guardian revealed that while Nigeria remains medal-less, 10 African countries have outperformed them, including Kenya, South Africa, Uganda, Algeria, Morocco, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Cape Verde, Egypt, and Zambia.

Here is a list of athletes with Nigerian heritage that have shone brightly for their adopted countries:

1. Yemisi Ogunleye

With a Nigerian father from Ekiti and a German mother, Yemisi Ogunleye, secured the top spot in women’s shot put, claiming gold for Germany at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

With a remarkable throw of