Unleashing Nigeria’s Hidden Talents: US-Based Athlete Champions Local Representation.
By Blessing Umebali
Nnamdi Adeboye Onwaeze, a talented Nigerian athlete based in the United States, is set to represent Nigeria at the CAA African Athletics Championships in Ghana. As he prepares for the big event, Onwaeze is on a mission to inspire fellow young Nigerian athletes, especially those in the diaspora, to embrace their roots and showcase their skills on the global stage.
Born in California to Nigerian parents, Onwaeze’s athletic journey is a testament to his cultural pride and determination. Despite being raised abroad, he has always dreamed of representing Nigeria, and now he’s making it happen. “I’ve always wanted to represent Nigeria. That’s been my dream from the beginning. Being Nigerian is part of my identity, and it means a lot to wear the green-white-green,” he said in an interview with Brandmatters Magazine.
Onwaeze believes Nigeria is home to some of the world’s most gifted athletes, but many lack the opportunities and resources to shine. “I know kids back home who are faster than me. They just need facilities, coaches, and opportunities,” he noted.
The 110m hurdler is urging Nigerian sports administrators to invest in young talents, build better scouting systems, and improve communication with athletes at home and abroad. “We have to find athletes early. We need camps, development programs, and proper follow-ups. We can’t wait until someone is a star before paying attention,” he emphasized.
As Onwaeze prepares to make his mark at the African Championships, he’s optimistic about the future. “This is just the beginning. I’m here to run my best, make Nigeria proud, and show the next generation that it’s possible,” he said.
With his story, Onwaeze hopes to inspire other Nigerian athletes in the diaspora to reach out and pursue their dreams of representing Nigeria. “It might take time, but if you keep knocking, doors will open. Representing Nigeria is worth it,” he encouraged.
Understanding that body can boost athletic performance, reason Nnamdi Onwaeze credits his kinesiology studies at Cal Poly Pomona for giving him a edge in training.
