Some of the Most Significant Sports in Nigeria

Nigeria is the land of opportunity for the farmers as there is a lot of potential in the agriculture sector. The land is fertile and can grow almost all types of crops. Another industry that has gradually replaced many other sectors is the sports industry. It really needs the support of the government in generating revenue for the country. The country's economic condition could get better if the sports industry is properly channelized by encouraging businessmen and entrepreneurs to own sports leagues. Some of the mainstream sports that need to be given attention are as follows:

Football:

Football is not only popular in Nigeria but loved by most of the countries around the globe. Nigeria has earned quite a reputation in football and many young Nigerian footballers dream of becoming part of the football team and earn fame and popularity for themselves and the country as well. This is why there should be leagues so that the talent doesn't go to waste. The investors should be given an opportunity to make leagues in Nigeria in order to promote the game as well as generate revenue. Nigeria's Jay-Jay Okocha was a footballer with high reputability and the youngsters want to touch those heights of recognition. Even in the streets the game is played with much enthusiasm and inter-street tournaments are held. The winner takes home a prize in the form of cash and also could brag about this until the next tournament.

Boxing:

Boxing is a prominent sport in Nigeria and youngsters from every walk of life are participating in this sport either as a form of exercise or to adopt this sport professionally. Bash Ali, a distinguished Nigerian boxer has been the role-model for many young boys & girls. Recently Efe Ajagba took part in the 2016 Rio Olympics. But according to the former Nigerian boxing champion Joe Lasisi, much needs to be done to improve the boxing skills of our younger generation. They need to be given proper facilities and clubs to practice and nurture their boxing abilities. TurnerMAX is boasting itself as an effective brand when it comes to quality and affordability of the boxing gear. The equipment that is being sold by Turner Sports UK both online and offline offer unique and innovative items related to combat sports such as boxing, kickboxing, martial arts, MMA and also weightlifting.

Basketball:

This is another game that the Nigerians love to play. The schools, both public and private have basketball courts in order to develop a child's natural talent for this game. So that youngsters can be turned into professional players and earn a name for their country one day. There are basketball clinics organized by some companies in which the youngsters get to learn from the professionals the tips and tricks of this immensely popular game.

 

Running:

It is a global sport and is loved by both the amateurs and professionals. People from almost every culture or religion are involved in running one way or the other. It not only burns your calories but also keeps you fit and healthy to carry out your routine tasks. Nigerians are particularly enthusiastic about this sport and every school prepares the young ones into adolescent athletes. Chioma Ajunwa was the first female Nigerian athlete to win a gold medal in Atlanta 1996 Olympic Games.

Weightlifting:

When we talk about weightlifting in the recent years, one name pops out as the most prominent, Maryam Usman. She is 26 and has represented Nigeria in several Olympic Games. In Rio 2016 Olympic Games it was most expected that she would clinch a medal for her country but unfortunately she couldn't deliver the expected performance. But the game of weightlifting is not only becoming popular but more and more Nigerians are taking part in it with the passage of time. If they keep up the hard work and dedication nobody could stop the Nigerians from reaching their true potential.

By John Fisher

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