Team Nigeria joined athletes from around the world at the opening ceremony of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Senegal on Saturday. This event marks the start of the first Olympic sporting competition ever held in Africa.
Led by sprinter Rosemary Chigozie Nwankwo, who carried the national flag, Nigeria's team marched into the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium in Diamniadio. The ceremony celebrated African culture, unity, and excellence in sports.
The fourth edition of the Summer Youth Olympic Games brings together young athletes from all over for 13 days of competition in Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly.
Senegal’s hosting of the event is a historic moment for Africa. It is the first time an African country has hosted an Olympic sporting competition.
Nigeria’s flag flying high [Credit: NSC MEDIA ]
Nwankwo, who is one of Nigeria’s medal hopes, led the country’s 19 athletes into the stadium. She carried the flag before thousands of fans and a global audience.
The sprinter plans to compete in the women’s 100 metres, where she aims to turn her potential into a medal finish.
The opening ceremony included music, dance, and cultural performances that highlighted Senegalese traditions and hospitality.
One of the biggest moments was when the Youth Olympic flame arrived at the stadium. The flame traveled through Senegal’s 14 regions for over 45 days before reaching its destination.
The flame was carried around the stadium before the official cauldron was lit, marking the start of the Games.
Team Nigeria [Credit: NSC MEDIA]
Nigeria will compete in six sports: athletics, boxing, road cycling, swimming, table tennis, and beach volleyball.
The team is made up of 19 athletes, which includes 12 women and seven men.
The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games give young athletes a chance to compete on an international stage and gain experience in a multi-sport event.
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