Nigeria has the highest population in Africa and is the seventh most populous country globally. The country has a rich culture, and sport is an integral aspect of their way of life.
The love for sport knows no bounds in Nigeria. From following their domestic teams in Nigeria to supporting foreign clubs, especially in the British premier league, sports is a huge activity in Nigeria.
Another way Nigerians express their passion for sport is by wagering on their favorite teams at online sportsbooks. Bet9ja soccer betting is one of the popular options chosen by punters in the country.
This guide will show you Nigeria’s top five most popular and followed sports.
Football
Football is the most popular sport in the country. This sport was introduced to Nigeria in the British colonial era and has gained widespread popularity since then. The passion Nigerians have for football can be seen in the number of football teams available in the country. Virtually every area has a football team, and then there are still a lot of unregistered clubs formulated by young people passionate about this sport.
Nigeria’s national team, known as the Super Eagles, has qualified six times for the world championship, and this team has given the country some of its most notable sporting moments.
Apart from being one of the most followed sports in Nigeria, the thrill, fun, and entertainment football brings for Nigerians is also amazing. In addition, it has also provided a platform for having some extra fun by placing bets on the matches, and Nigerians are heavy on betting.
Basketball
Nigeria has been involved in basketball for a long time, and in 1964, the country’s national team became a part of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA). The highest tier of men’s professional basketball in Nigeria is the Nigerian Premier Basketball League (NFP).
This sport gained high interest in the 1990s when Hakeem Olajuwon became a superstar in the NBA. Since then, there have been many exploits by the male and female national teams, and now Nigeria has become one of the top basketball nations in Africa.
Boxing
Over the years, Nigeria has produced a long list of great, professional top-class boxers, including Nojim Maiyegun, Bash Ali, Samuel Peter, Hogan Bassey, and Dick Tiger. Currently, there are more than 300 professional boxers in Nigeria.
Boxing kicked off professionally in Nigeria in 1947, and it is currently one of the most followed sports by fans in the country. Boxing is also a very productive sport for Nigeria at the Olympics, and the country has bagged up to six medals at the quadrennial event. The recent rise of Anthony Joshua, the successful British fighter of Nigerian descent, also shed more light on the sport in Nigeria.
Athletics
Nigeria’s track and field athletes have provided the country with a long history of excellence and success in global and national sports events, including the Olympics. Likewise, athletics has provided many notable moments for sports fans in Nigeria, and over the years, the skilled athletes have, on different occasions, won both bronze and gold medals.
Table Tennis
Table tennis is also one of Nigeria’s most followed and popular sports. Many Nigerians love and play the game in different parts of the country. You can find a ping pong table in almost all recreational centers and sports complexes, and those that can’t access a proper setup can always use available resources to set up and enjoy the sport.
Nigeria is blessed with many notable, world-class, and professional table tennis players, including Funke Oshonaiki, Segun Toriola, Aruna Quadri, etc.
These top 5 sports have come a long way in providing a vast means of fun and entertainment for many Nigerians. Also, apart from watching the sports, many young kids and adults gather around to play them, and it is an excellent way for people to bond with one another.