Everything You Need To Know About Nigerian Sports
![Everything You Need To Know About Nigerian Sports](https://val9janews.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Athlethes-1-1-1024x576.jpg)
Nigeria’s first-ever recognition in the sports arena was in the early 50s during the country’s first appearance in the Helsinki Olympic Games of 1952. Emmanuel Ifeajuna, at the commonwealth games held in Cardiff. Won a gold medal in high jumps. This was Nigeria’s kickoff into sports globally. Years later Nigeria grew stronger in terms of sports in Africa and has since then become a growing sensation in the world of sports. This article will take you round the clock of Nigeria’s participation in different areas of sports.
Soccer
In 1960, Nigeria’s name was first heard in the international scene but failed to qualify for the world cup. In 1970, Nigeria took the first step by qualifying for the Mexico world cup. And since then have participated in several world cup games like that of 2010, 2014, and 2018, etc. Today, the super eagles and some other Nigerian players are making waves around Europe and beyond.
Boxing
Recently, Nigeria has also proved to be very capable in professional boxing. Over the years, Nigeria have had three world champions, namely: Hogan “Kid” Bassey, Dick Tiger, and Bash Ali. Nigeria has also produced prominent boxers in the Olympic Games, further raising the country’s rating in the sport.
Athletics
Notwithstanding the fact that countries like Kenya, Ethiopia have made names in the field of athletics. Nigeria has also proven its worth. Like in long jump, relay races, field and track events, etc. Also, some of the Nigerian athletes are scattered throughout Europe and other foreign countries. Even in our primary and secondary institutions, school students participate in various field and track events so as to enhance their talents in the game as these also helps in achieving greater heights in the global world.
Wrestling
Wrestling has become an important profession in Nigeria. In some parts of the country, during festive periods, wrestling is organized as a source of entertainment, and this sport always attracts large audiences. Here the wrestlers are not awarded any medal as a sign of being a champion. The honor alone is what they highly regard. Several Nigerians are notable for their success in wrestling across the world. Like world titleholder, Power Uti.
Nigeria is one of the most developed country in Africa today. And Nigeria takes pride in some of the achievements of sports she has reached. Since sports is one of the key areas that have put Nigeria on the center stage of excellence.