March 8 marks International Women’s Day, a global celebration of women’s achievements and a reminder of the ongoing need for progress in gender equality, reproductive rights, and the fight against violence and discrimination. This year, we spotlight six Nigerian women who have made significant strides in the world of sports, inspiring countless others and bringing global recognition to Nigeria.
1. Tobi Amusan – World Record-Holding Hurdler
Tobi Amusan, a 100m hurdles specialist, made history at the 2022 World Athletics Championships, becoming Nigeria’s first world champion. She set a new world record in the semi-final with a time of 12.12 seconds and clinched the gold in the final with a wind-assisted 12.06 seconds. Amusan’s record-breaking feat has not only inspired many in Nigeria but also garnered praise globally.
2. Favour Ofili – Commonwealth Games Medallist and Track Star
At just 20, Favour Ofili has already made her mark in athletics, earning silver in the women’s 200m at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham with a time of 22.51 seconds. Ofili has represented Nigeria in major competitions, becoming a Commonwealth Games winner, All-African Games silver medallist, and a top-eight finisher at the World Championships.
3. Asisat Oshoala – Iconic Footballer and Five-Time African Women’s Footballer of the Year
Renowned as one of Africa’s greatest female footballers, Asisat Oshoala burst onto the scene during the 2014 Women’s U-20 World Cup, where she was both the top scorer and MVP. She currently plays for FC Barcelona Feminine and the Nigerian Super Falcons, and she has won the African Women’s Footballer of the Year award a record five times.
4. Mary Osijo – Commonwealth Games Weightlifting Bronze Medallist
Mary Osijo, a talented Nigerian weightlifter, brought home a bronze medal in the Women’s 87 kg category at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. She lifted a combined total of 225 kg in the Snatch, Clean, and Jerk events. Osijo has also won numerous medals at national events, including the Edo State Sports Festival, and represented Nigeria at the 2014 All African Games.
5. Chiamaka Nnadozie – Goalkeeping Prodigy and International Standout
As a 19-year-old goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie made headlines at the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup by securing a clean sheet in Nigeria’s 2–0 win over Korea, becoming the youngest goalkeeper to achieve this at the tournament. Currently playing for Paris FC in the French Division 1 Féminine, Nnadozie was also nominated for the 2021/2022 UNFP Best Goalkeeper award in France’s D1 Arkema league.
6. Desire Oparanozie – Prolific Striker and International Forward
Desire Oparanozie has been a fixture in Nigerian football since 2010, competing in multiple FIFA Women’s World Cup tournaments. Known for her speed and physicality, she plays forward for Wuhan Jianghan University in the Chinese Women’s Super League. Her impressive performances and years of dedication continue to make her a prominent figure in the Super Falcons lineup.
Each of these exceptional athletes has pushed boundaries and shattered records, making them trailblazers in their respective sports. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, they stand as a testament to the power, resilience, and influence of Nigerian women on the global sports stage.
