Famous Nigerian Sportspersons

Jay-Jay Okocha is a Nigerian former professional footballer known for his skill and creativity as an attacking midfielder. With 73 caps for the Nigeria national team, he scored 14 goals and represented his country in three FIFA World Cup tournaments. Okocha's career spanned various leagues, including the Bundesliga, Süper Lig, Ligue 1, Premier League, EFL Championship, and Qatar Stars League. His talent and flair on the pitch have solidified his reputation as one of Africa's greatest football players.

Ime Udoka is a Nigerian-American professional basketball coach and former player. He has had a successful career in the NBA, serving as the head coach for the Houston Rockets. Udoka also played for the Nigerian national team during his playing days. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into coaching, working as an assistant coach for various teams including the San Antonio Spurs, Philadelphia 76ers, and Brooklyn Nets. Udoka's coaching abilities were recognized when he led the Boston Celtics to the 2022 NBA Finals.

Kelechi Iheanacho is a Nigerian professional footballer who plays as a striker for La Liga club Sevilla and the Nigeria national team. He started his senior career at Manchester City, winning the Football League Cup. In 2017, he moved to Leicester City for a record fee at the time. Iheanacho played a key role in Leicester City's 2020-21 FA Cup victory, scoring four goals in the edition. He has represented Nigeria at various international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations, earning accolades for his talent along the way.

Nwankwo Kanu is a Nigerian retired professional footballer known for his prolific career as a forward. He played for various clubs including Arsenal, Ajax, Inter Milan, West Bromwich Albion, and Portsmouth. Kanu is regarded as one of the greatest African footballers of all time, having achieved numerous accolades such as winning the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and an Olympic gold medal. He is also recognized for his philanthropic work as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and his ventures in sports television broadcasting.

Foluwashola "Shola" Ameobi is a retired Nigerian professional footballer known for his time at Newcastle United, where he played as a striker for 14 years. He made nearly 400 official appearances for the club and scored 79 goals. Ameobi also had stints at other clubs such as Gaziantep BB in Turkey, Crystal Palace, Bolton Wanderers, Fleetwood Town, and Notts County. He represented both England's under-21 team and the Nigerian national team, participating in the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Samuel Okon Peter is a Nigerian professional boxer known for his impressive career in the heavyweight division. He held the WBC heavyweight title in 2008 after defeating Oleg Maskaev. Peter gained recognition for his fierce rivalry with the Klitschko brothers, particularly facing Wladimir twice and Vitali once. He was ranked among the top athletes in Nigeria, with his title win being considered a memorable moment in the country's sports history. Peter's exceptional punching power and high knockout-to-win ratio have solidified his reputation as a formidable heavyweight contender.

Obafemi Akinwunmi Martins is a retired Nigerian professional footballer who played as a forward. He gained recognition for his exceptional speed on the ball. Martins embarked on his professional career in 2002 with Serie A club Inter Milan before moving to Newcastle United in 2006 and later to VfL Wolfsburg in 2009. Throughout his career, Martins also played for clubs in Russia, Spain, the United States, and China. He achieved various titles and accolades in club competitions, displaying scoring prowess in different leagues. Additionally, he represented Nigeria in several major international tournaments.

Joseph Yobo is a retired Nigerian professional footballer who excelled as a centre back. He served as the captain of the Nigerian national team and held the record for the most appearances for Nigeria. Following his international retirement in 2014, Yobo transitioned into coaching and was appointed as an assistant coach for the Super Eagles by the Nigeria Football Federation in February 2020. Throughout his career, Yobo demonstrated leadership on the field and continues to contribute to Nigerian football through his coaching role.

Peter Odemwingie is a Nigerian former professional footballer who played as a forward. He began his career in Nigeria with Bendel Insurance before moving to Europe, where he played for La Louvière in Belgium and Lille in France. His success continued at Lokomotiv Moscow before he joined West Bromwich Albion in the English Premier League. Odemwingie scored 30 goals for West Brom and won three Premier League Player of the Month awards. He later played for Cardiff City and Stoke City, while also representing Nigeria at international level, including in World Cups and Africa Cup of Nations.

Victor Nsofor Obinna is a Nigerian former professional footballer known for his role as a striker. He played for Chievo in Italy's Serie B and Serie A until their relegation in 2007. Obinna made his international debut for Nigeria at the 2006 African Cup of Nations, showcasing his skills with a goal in three appearances. Throughout his career, he exhibited talent and determination on the field, leaving a lasting impact on the football community with his contributions both domestically and internationally.

Prince Tega Wanogho is a Nigerian-born American football offensive tackle who played college football at Auburn before being drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL draft. As a free agent, he is actively seeking opportunities to continue his professional football career and showcase his skills on the field. With a strong background in collegiate football and a draft selection by an NFL team, Wanogho is determined to make an impact at the next level and contribute to a successful team.

Rashidi Yekini was a Nigerian professional footballer renowned for his skill as a forward. He holds the prestigious title of being the all-time top goalscorer for Nigeria. Yekini's illustrious career spanned over two decades, with his primary association being with Vitória de Setúbal in Portugal. He played in multiple countries during his career and scored 37 goals for the Nigerian national team. Yekini's impressive international career saw him representing Nigeria in seven major tournaments, including two World Cups where he made history by scoring the country's first-ever goal in the competition. His talent and contributions to the sport were recognized when he was named the African Footballer of the Year in 1993.

Efe Ajagba is a Nigerian professional boxer known for holding the record for the fastest victory in boxing history. He gained recognition after his opponent was disqualified for leaving the ring one second after the opening bell. As an amateur, Ajagba showcased his talent by winning a gold medal at the 2015 African Games and a bronze at the 2014 Commonwealth Games. Transitioning to the professional boxing world, he continues to impress with his skills and determination, making a name for himself in the sport.

Maduka Okoye is a professional goalkeeper playing for Serie A club Udinese and representing the Nigeria national team. Known for his agility, shot-stopping abilities, and commanding presence in the box, Okoye has established himself as a key player for both club and country. He has garnered attention for his performances on the field, earning praise for his consistency and skill between the posts. Okoye's dedication to his craft and his strong work ethic have contributed to his success as a top goalkeeper in the football world.

Taye Ismaila Taiwo is a retired Nigerian professional footballer who played as a defender. He started his career with Gabros International and Lobi Stars before moving to Marseille in France, where he achieved success by winning Ligue 1, Coupe de la Ligue, and Trophée des Champions. However, his career took a downturn after joining Milan in Serie A. Despite a promising start in France, his time at Milan was marked by a decline, according to Goal.com.

Abi Olajuwon is a Nigerian-American basketball coach and former player. She currently serves as an assistant coach for the Connecticut Sun in the WNBA. With a strong basketball background, being the daughter of former NBA center Hakeem Olajuwon, Abi brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to her coaching role. Her passion for the game and dedication to developing players make her a valuable asset to the team. Abi Olajuwon continues to make significant contributions to the world of basketball through her coaching career.

Chukwuma Okorafor is a Nigerian professional American football offensive tackle currently playing for the New England Patriots in the NFL. He began his professional career after playing college football at Western Michigan. Okorafor's skills as an offensive tackle have made him a valuable asset to the Patriots team, showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport. Known for his strong blocking abilities and agility on the field, Okorafor continues to make an impact in the NFL with his impressive performance and work ethic.

Samson Ebukam is a talented Nigerian-American football defensive end currently playing for the Indianapolis Colts in the NFL. He excelled in college football at Eastern Washington before being drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Known for his speed and agility on the field, Ebukam has established himself as a formidable force in the league, making key contributions to his teams with his strong defensive skills and impressive athleticism.

Francis Uzoho is a Nigerian professional footballer known for his role as a goalkeeper. He currently plays for Cypriot First Division club Omonia and represents the Nigeria national team. Uzoho has gained recognition for his skills and performance on the field, establishing himself as a reliable presence in goalkeeping. His career has seen him compete at a high level in both domestic and international competitions, showcasing his talent and contributing to his team's success.

Ben Banogu is a Nigerian professional American football defensive end. He played college football at Louisiana-Monroe and TCU before entering the NFL. Banogu was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He played for the Colts for two seasons before becoming a free agent. Banogu is known for his versatility on the field, with a combination of speed and strength that make him a valuable asset to any team looking for a dynamic defensive player.

Amobi Okoye is a former professional American football defensive tackle known for his impressive career in the NFL. He played college football at Louisville before being drafted by the Houston Texans in the 2007 NFL Draft. Making history as the youngest player to be drafted in the first round, Okoye went on to play for several other teams including the Chicago Bears, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Dallas Cowboys. His talent and dedication earned him a respected reputation in the world of professional football.

Ositadimma "Osi" Umenyiora had a successful professional career as a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Troy Trojans before being drafted by the New York Giants in the second round of the 2003 NFL draft. Known for his exceptional skills, Umenyiora earned recognition as a two-time Pro Bowl selection and set the Giants franchise record for most sacks in a single game. He also played for the Atlanta Falcons and is one of five British-born players to have won a Super Bowl.

Joseph Ossai is a Nigerian professional American football defensive end for the Cincinnati Bengals in the NFL. He gained recognition during his college career at the University of Texas, where he excelled as a consensus All-American player and was a finalist for the prestigious Lott IMPACT Trophy. Ossai was selected by the Bengals in the third round of the 2021 NFL draft, marking the beginning of his professional football journey as he aims to make a significant impact in the league as a defensive force.

Kamaru Usman is a Nigerian-American professional mixed martial artist who competes in the Middleweight division of the UFC. He is a former UFC Welterweight Champion and winner of The Ultimate Fighter 21 tournament. Usman has a background in freestyle wrestling, having competed at various weight classes and achieving success at both collegiate and international levels. He is currently ranked #2 in the UFC welterweight division and is known for his impressive skills and accomplishments within the sport.

Kristine Anigwe is an American professional basketball player known for her career with SERCO UNI Győr in the EuroLeague. With remarkable skills and dedication, she has made a significant impact on the court. Anigwe's talent and hard work have earned her a strong reputation in the basketball world. She consistently demonstrates outstanding performance on the court, showcasing her versatility and athleticism. Anigwe's presence in the EuroLeague has contributed to her team's success and solidified her position as a key player in the league.

Alexander Chuka Iwobi is a Nigerian professional footballer currently playing as a midfielder for Premier League club Fulham and the Nigeria national team. He began his career at Arsenal, where he made 149 appearances and scored fifteen goals, winning the FA Cup in 2017. In 2019, he transferred to Everton for a significant fee. Iwobi has also represented Nigeria at international level, participating in various tournaments including the FIFA World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations, achieving notable successes with the national team.

Victor Ikpeba Nosa is a retired Nigerian professional footballer known for his prowess as a forward. He represented both his club and country during his successful career. With 31 international appearances for Nigeria, he scored a total of seven goals. Ikpeba notably played for the Super Eagles in the FIFA World Cups of 1994 and 1998, making significant contributions in both tournaments. His achievements include winning the 1994 African Nations Cup and the Olympic football gold medal in 1996.

Isaac Success Ajayi is a Nigerian professional footballer known for his role as a forward for Serie A club Udinese. He has showcased his skills and talent on the field, contributing to the team's performance with his scoring abilities and strategic play. With a strong presence on the field, Isaac has impressed fans and critics alike with his speed, agility, and goal-scoring capabilities. His dedication to the sport and commitment to excellence have earned him a respected reputation in the world of professional football.

Uche Kalu is a Nigerian football player who has played for various clubs across different countries. He has had a successful career, being named the "Most Valuable Player" in the Nigerian Premier League and playing for teams in Nigeria, Turkey, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan. Kalu has experienced both highs and lows, including struggling with injuries and achieving success with his teams. He has represented Nigeria at both the B team and senior levels, showcasing his talent and contributing to his teams' successes.

Jeffrey C. Otah is a former American football offensive tackle who played in the NFL. He was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the first round of the 2008 NFL draft, marking the beginning of his professional career. Otah played for the Panthers for a few seasons, showcasing his skills as an offensive lineman. Throughout his time in the NFL, he made valuable contributions to the team before ultimately retiring from professional football.

Emmanuel Ogbah is a Nigerian professional American football linebacker who currently plays for the Miami Dolphins of the NFL. He began his career playing college football at Oklahoma State before being drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 2016. Ogbah has also played for the Kansas City Chiefs before joining the Dolphins. Known for his versatility and pass-rushing skills, Ogbah has established himself as a key player on defense, consistently making impactful contributions to his teams throughout his professional career.

Innocent Emeghara had a successful professional football career as a Swiss striker, known for his speed and goal-scoring ability. He played for various clubs during his career, showcasing his talent and contributing significantly to his teams' performances. Emeghara's skill and dedication on the field earned him recognition among fans and peers in the football world. After retiring from professional football, he left a legacy as a respected and accomplished player in the sport.

Taribo West is a former professional footballer from Nigeria known for his career as a defender. He achieved success with Auxerre in French football before playing for renowned clubs such as Inter Milan and AC Milan in Italy, as well as featuring in top leagues in England and Germany. With 42 international caps for Nigeria, West participated in multiple World Cups and African Championships. He also earned a gold medal at the 1996 Olympics, showcasing his talent and dedication on the global stage.

Ade Aruna is a Nigerian professional American football defensive end who played college football at Tulane. He was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the sixth round of the 2018 NFL draft. Throughout his career, he has also been a member of the Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders and BC Lions. Aruna has demonstrated his skills and versatility as a defensive player, showcasing his talent in various teams and continuing to pursue opportunities in the competitive world of professional football.

Izu Ugonoh is a versatile athlete with a background in professional boxing, kickboxing, and mixed martial arts. He has showcased his skills in various combat sports, earning a reputation for his athleticism and technical proficiency. As a graduate of the Jędrzej Śniadecki University School of Physical Education and Sport in Gdańsk, Ugonoh has a solid foundation in sports science. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence in his performances across different disciplines.

Dick Tiger was a Nigerian professional boxer who held the undisputed middleweight and light-heavyweight championships. He emigrated to Liverpool, England, and later to the United States to pursue his boxing career. Tiger served as a Lieutenant in the Biafran army during the Nigerian Civil War, training soldiers in hand-to-hand combat. Inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1991, Tiger was celebrated as Fighter of the Year multiple times by The Ring magazine and the Boxing Writers Association of America. He is revered as one of the best boxers of the 1960s and the 20th century.

Bobby Ologun, also known as Bobby Konda, is a Nigerian-born television personality and mixed martial artist who holds Japanese citizenship. Fluent in English, Yoruba, and Japanese, he resides in Saitama, Japan. In 2007, he naturalized as a Japanese citizen and adopted the name Bobby Konda. He is prominently known as the narrator for the TV show You wa Nani Shi ni Nippon e (YOUは何しに日本へ). Bobby's professional career showcases his diverse talents and cultural adaptability in the Japanese entertainment industry.

Simidele Adeagbo is a trailblazing Nigerian skeleton racer who made history as Nigeria and Africa's first female skeleton athlete. She also holds the distinction of being the first black female Olympian in the sport. In addition to her achievements at the Winter Olympics, Adeagbo showcased her talent by winning the woman's mono bob event at the 2022 EuroCup in Germany, becoming the first athlete from Africa to claim victory in an international sled race. Prior to her skeleton career, she competed in triple jump.

Ike Diogu is a Nigerian-American professional basketball player currently playing for Piratas de La Guaira in Venezuela. Known for his skills on the court, he has established himself as a valuable asset in various basketball leagues. With a strong presence and scoring ability, Diogu has made significant contributions to his teams over the years. His dedication and hard work have earned him recognition as a talented player in the Superliga Profesional de Baloncesto, showcasing his passion for the sport.

Kalu Uche is a former Nigerian professional footballer who played as a forward. He had a successful career primarily in Spain with clubs like Almería, where he played over 100 matches and scored numerous goals in La Liga. He also had stints in other countries including Poland, France, Switzerland, Turkey, Qatar, and India. Uche represented Nigeria on the international stage, participating in major tournaments like the 2010 World Cup and the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations.

Patrick C. Chukwurah had a successful career as a professional American football player primarily as a defensive end. He was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the fifth round of the 2001 NFL Draft after playing college football at Wyoming. Throughout his career, Chukwurah also played for the Houston Texans, Denver Broncos, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Florida Tuskers, and the Seattle Seahawks, showcasing his versatility and skill on the field. His contributions to various teams highlight his impact and dedication to the sport.

Razak Omotoyossi is a retired professional footballer who excelled as a striker for both club and country. Hailing from Nigeria, he represented the Benin national team at the international level. Omotoyossi showcased his talent across various countries, plying his trade in Nigeria, Egypt, Sweden, Saudi Arabia, and France. Known for his goal-scoring prowess and versatility on the field, he left a mark in the football world with his impressive performances and dedication to the sport throughout his career.

William Troost-Ekong is a Nigerian professional footballer known for his role as a centre-back for Super League Greece club PAOK and as the captain of the Nigeria national team. Having made his international debut in 2015, Troost-Ekong has accumulated over 70 caps for Nigeria. He is recognized for his defensive prowess and leadership on the field, contributing significantly to his team's performances. Troost-Ekong's career highlights include his successful stints with various clubs and his consistent presence as a key player for both club and country.

Tèmítọ́pẹ́ Títílọlá Olúwatóbilọ́ba Fagbenle is an accomplished professional basketball player with a diverse career spanning both the WNBA and the Women's British Basketball League. She currently plays for the Indiana Fever in the WNBA and the London Lions in the Women's British Basketball League. Fagbenle's talent and hard work have earned her a spot on the Great Britain national team at the prestigious 2012 Summer Olympics, showcasing her skill and dedication on an international stage.

Jeremiah Attaochu is a Nigerian-American football linebacker who began his professional career after being drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the 2014 NFL draft. Throughout his career, he has also played for various other teams, including the San Francisco 49ers, New York Jets, Kansas City Chiefs, Denver Broncos, Chicago Bears, and Baltimore Ravens. With a strong background in college football at Georgia Tech, Attaochu has showcased his skills and versatility as a linebacker while navigating multiple opportunities with different NFL franchises.

Stephen Keshi was a prominent figure in Nigerian football, excelling both as a player and a manager. Known for his defensive skills, he earned 60 caps for Nigeria and played in prestigious tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations. Keshi also had success as a manager, guiding Togo to their first-ever World Cup appearance and leading Nigeria to victory in the Africa Cup of Nations as both a player and coach. His achievements spanned multiple countries and clubs, showcasing his versatility and leadership in the sport.

Gabe Vincent is a Nigerian-American professional basketball player currently signed with the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. He began his professional career by playing for the Stockton Kings in the NBA G League before signing a two-way contract with the Miami Heat. Vincent had the opportunity to compete in the NBA Finals with Miami in both 2020 and 2023. He later joined the Los Angeles Lakers, showcasing his skills and talent in the highly competitive world of professional basketball.

David Onyemata is a skilled Nigerian professional football player, currently serving as a nose tackle for the Atlanta Falcons in the NFL. He honed his talents while playing college football at Manitoba. Onyemata's prowess on the field has made him a valuable asset to his team, showcasing his abilities as a formidable defensive player. With his dedication and hard work, he continues to make a significant impact in the world of professional football, earning recognition for his talent and performance.

Uga Okpara is a skilled Nigerian football player known for his impressive career in the sport. Throughout his professional life, he has demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication on the field, earning recognition for his defensive prowess and leadership qualities. Okpara has played for various clubs, showcasing his versatility and contributing significantly to their success. His strong work ethic, tactical understanding, and ability to read the game have made him a valuable asset in the world of football.

Jaycee John "JoJo" Okwunwanne is a Nigerian-born footballer who was naturalized to represent Bahrain internationally as a striker. He began his youth career with Osaka Lagos under the guidance of Nigerian ex-international Kingsley Osakwe. Known for his globetrotting career, Okwunwanne has played in seven countries including Thailand. His professional journey showcases his adaptability and skill on the field, making him a versatile player with experience in various footballing cultures and environments.

Femi Ogunode is a Nigerian-born sprint athlete who has been competing for Qatar since 2010. He has achieved notable success in various international competitions, including winning multiple medals at the Asian Games and other prestigious events. Ogunode holds impressive records in the 100 meters and 200 meters events, with notable achievements such as setting the Asian record in the 100 meters. He has participated in World Championships and other major competitions, solidifying his reputation as a top sprinter on the global stage.

Kevin Akpoguma is a versatile professional footballer known for his skills as a centre back or left-back. He currently plays for Bundesliga club TSG Hoffenheim, showcasing his talents on the field. Having represented Germany at the youth level, Akpoguma made a significant decision to switch allegiances and now plays for the Nigeria national team. His experience playing for both countries highlights his adaptability and talent, making him a valuable asset to both his club and national team.

Wilson Oruma is a Nigerian former professional footballer known for his role as a midfielder. He had a successful career primarily in France, where he spent most of his playing years. Oruma showcased his skills and versatility on the field, earning recognition for his abilities in controlling the midfield and creating scoring opportunities. Throughout his professional career, he demonstrated dedication, passion, and talent for the sport, leaving a lasting impact on the teams and fans he represented.

John Chukwudi Utaka is a retired Nigerian footballer turned youth coach, with experience playing for various clubs across different continents. He has represented Nigeria in multiple World Cups and Africa Cup of Nations tournaments. Known for his speed and skill as a winger, Utaka has been a valuable asset for teams employing a counter-attacking style of play. Additionally, he has founded the John Utaka Football Academy in Niger state, showcasing his commitment to developing young talent in the sport.

Obum Gwacham is a former professional football defensive end of Nigerian descent. He began his career playing college football for the Oregon State Beavers before transitioning to the professional level. Gwacham had stints with several NFL teams, including the Seattle Seahawks, New Orleans Saints, Arizona Cardinals, and New York Jets. He also played in the Alliance of American Football for the Arizona Hotshots and in the XFL for the Tampa Bay Vipers. Gwacham later joined the BC Lions in the Canadian Football League.

Tony Mmoh is a former professional tennis player from Nigeria who competed at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul. He achieved his highest singles ATP-ranking in October 1987, reaching the position of 105 in the world. Mmoh is known for his right-handed playing style and represented his native country on the international tennis stage. Following his tennis career, Mmoh's legacy continues through his son Michael Mmoh, who has also pursued a career as a professional tennis player.

Moses Ashikodi is a retired professional footballer who has played for several notable clubs including Millwall, West Ham United, Gillingham, Rangers, Watford, Bradford City, Swindon Town, Hereford United, and Shrewsbury Town. He has also had stints in semi-professional football with various teams such as Ebbsfleet United, Kettering Town, York City, and many others. Ashikodi has international experience, having been capped twice for Antigua & Barbuda, in addition to representing England at various youth levels up to Under-19.

Ben Uzoh, a Nigerian-American former basketball player, had a successful professional career primarily as a point guard. He played in the NBA for the New Jersey Nets and Toronto Raptors, showcasing his skills at the highest level of basketball. Additionally, Uzoh competed in international competitions for the Nigerian national team. Throughout his career, he also played for various teams across North America, Europe, South America, and Africa, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability as a player on a global scale.

Olusoji Adetokunbo Fasuba is a Nigerian sprinter renowned for his expertise in the 100 metres event. He held the African record with a time of 9.85 seconds until it was surpassed by Akani Simbine in July 2021. Fasuba achieved significant milestones in his career, such as winning the African Championships in 100 metres and securing a bronze medal in the 4 x 100 metres relay at the 2004 Olympic Games. He also claimed the silver medal at the 2006 Commonwealth Games and became the indoor world champion over 60 metres in 2008.

Iheanyi Uwaezuoke is a former professional football player who had a successful career in the NFL, playing primarily for the Carolina Panthers and San Francisco 49ers. Known for his skills as a wide receiver and punt returner, he ranked 27th in the league's history for career yards per punt return. Uwaezuoke also excelled in college football at the University of California, Berkeley, where he was a standout player for the Golden Bears, finishing among the top receivers in the nation during his junior year.

Oluwafemi Ajilore, known as Femi, is a Nigerian former professional footballer who played as a midfielder. He held a Ghanaian passport and often played as a central defensive midfielder in his clubs. Ajilore represented the Nigerian U-23 national team at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, winning a silver medal. He made his debut for the Super Eagles in 2008. Ajilore was once the most expensive player in FC Groningen's history. He also played for FC Midtjylland in the Danish Superliga before retiring in 2017 due to injuries.

Chioma Ajunwa-Opara, MON, OLY is a Nigerian former track and field athlete and football player. She made history by becoming the first Nigerian to win Olympic gold at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta and the first black African woman to win an Olympic gold medal in a field event. Ajunwa is a member of the Nigerian Police Force and remains the only woman to compete at both the FIFA Women's World Cup as a footballer and the Olympics as a track and field athlete. In December 2017, she launched the Chioma Ajunwa-Okpara Foundation to discover new Nigerian sports talents and has contributed to promoting athletics through various initiatives and sponsorships.

Mohammed Elewonibi, also known as Moe, is a Nigerian-Canadian retired professional football player who excelled as an offensive lineman in both the NFL and CFL. His career came to an unfortunate end due to a knee injury sustained during the Eagles/Cowboys Divisional Playoff Game in 1996. Despite the injury cutting his NFL career short, Elewonibi made significant contributions to the sport during his time on the field, showcasing his skills and dedication as a formidable player in the league.

Tyronne Ebuehi is a professional footballer known for his role as a right-back for Italian Serie A club Empoli and the Nigerian national team. With commendable skills and versatility, he has made significant contributions to his teams, showcasing a strong defensive prowess and adeptness in supporting the attack. Ebuehi's career highlights include impressive performances in both domestic and international competitions, earning him recognition as a reliable and valuable player on the field. His dedication and commitment have solidified his position as a key player in the world of professional football.

Ike Ibeabuchi was a Nigerian professional boxer who competed in the heavyweight division from 1994 to 1999. He achieved notable victories over top contenders, including David Tua and Chris Byrd. Known for his natural talent and impressive record of 20-0 with 15 knockouts, Ibeabuchi's career was marred by emotional instability and violent tendencies outside the ring. His boxing career came to an end in 1999 following legal issues. After serving a 16-year prison sentence, he expressed interest in returning to boxing but was unable to do so due to legal complications.

Abu Abolaji Azeez is a Nigerian soccer player known for his role as a forward in the Bangladesh Premier League team, Chittagong Abahani. He has also represented the Nigeria national beach soccer team, showcasing his skills and talent on an international level. Azeez's professional career highlights his dedication to the sport and his ability to excel in different soccer formats. With experience playing for various teams and representing his country, he has established himself as a versatile and accomplished player in the world of soccer.