It was a weekend of triumph, resilience, and sporting excellence as Nigeria’s flag flew high across multiple arenas on the international stage.
From basketball courts in Abidjan to badminton courts in Cardiff, and from school sports in Algeria to arm wrestling in Abuja, Nigeria delivered a series of standout performances that reaffirmed its status as a sports powerhouse. The nation went into the weekend with four sports federations competing in international competitions at the same time. Contingents were in Morocco (WAFCON), Algeria (School Sports), Côte d’Ivoire (basketball), and badminton (Wales).
D’Tigress Begin AfroBasket Title Defence in Style
Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, kicked off their campaign at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket with a commanding 92–45 victory over Rwanda in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. The defending champions demonstrated dominance and cohesion, with Victoria Macauley leading the charge, racking up 13 points, 5 assists, and 5 steals.
The team’s performance sent a clear message that they are on a mission to capture a record fifth consecutive African title.
Badminton Glory: Eniola Bolaji Swallows World No. 1 in Wales
In the capital city of Wales, Eniola Bolaji, Nigeria’s Paralympic bronze medalist, claimed gold at the 2025 British and Irish Para-Badminton International on Saturday afternoon.
In a thrilling match, she overcame world No. 1, Qonitah Syakuroh Ikhtiar of Indonesia, with a scoreline of 13-21, 21-16, 21-16. Ikhtiar had previously defeated Bolaji at the 2024 Paralympics at the semifinal stage.
It was a stunning revenge victory and a testament to Bolaji’s determination and elite athletic prowess.
Team Nigeria Steals the Spotlight at African School Games
Nigeria also made headlines in Annaba, Algeria, as a pioneering participant at the maiden African School Games.
At the Opening Ceremony on Saturday, Team Nigeria stole the show, drawing loud cheers with their vibrant green-and-white attire and infectious energy.
The 60-strong student-athlete delegation competing in 10 different sports embodied unity, pride, and hope for the future of Nigerian sports.
Super Falcons Complete ‘Mission X’ at WAFCON
To cap off the weekend, the Super Falcons etched their names in history once again, completing ‘Mission X’ by winning the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) for a record-extending 10th time.
In a dramatic final against host nation Morocco, Nigeria rallied from a 2-0 deficit at halftime to secure a stunning 3-2 comeback victory.
Goals from Esther Okoronkwo (penalty), Folashade Ijamilusi, and a late strike by Jennifer Echegini sealed the victory, following an assist from Okoronkwo off a well-placed free kick.
The Falcons’ resilience and tactical brilliance once again proved why they remain Africa’s most formidable women’s football team.
Arm Wrestling: Nigeria Ranks Amongst the Best in Africa
Also in the spotlight, Nigeria showcased its strength in arm wrestling, delivering dominant performances at the 14th African Arm Wrestling Championship held in Abuja.
With athletes from over 20 nations competing, Nigeria once again proved why it remains a continental powerhouse in the sport, finishing on the podium at the tourney.
Nigeria: Africa’s Emerging Sports Hub
Looking ahead, Nigeria is set to host the 2025 WAFU B U-17 Championship, a key CAF qualifying tournament for youth football, with participation expected from at least seven West African countries. The event promises to boost grassroots sports and further position Nigeria as a hub for sports tourism and development in Africa.
The NSC’s strategic approach to reviving sports infrastructure, diversifying funding sources, and partnering with the private sector is steadily transforming the nation’s sports economy, as mandated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Through deliberate hosting of international events, the Commission is revamping aging facilities, attracting sponsorship and investment, creating jobs, inspiring national pride, and developing a pipeline of young athletes ready to conquer the world.
With the NSC’s renewed focus on excellence, the nation is not only reclaiming past glory but boldly charting a new era for Nigerian sports.
SIGNED: Kola Daniel, S.A., Media, Office of the Director General, National Sports Commission (NSC).
