The Nigerian contingent to the Paris 2024 Olympics shone in resplendent traditional attire at the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in France on Friday.
Nigerias flagbearer and 100 meters women’s hurdles record holder, Tobi Amusan captivated onlookers with her stunning outfit proudly representing the country in a traditional Yoruba ensemble.
The outfit which featured a beautifully crafted Iro and buba, complete with a gele, showcased the rich cultural heritage of Ogun State, where Amusan hails from.
Team Captain, Anuoluwapo Opeyori also adorned the sane attire as he stood beside Amusan, leading the Nigerian contingent with grace and pride.
The ceremonial attire was designed by the United States-based sports apparel company, Actively Black, known for blending Nigerias vibrant green and white colors with traditional adire patterns.
The outfit combined this unique fabric with white, fitted round-neck inner shirts, representing both urban and traditional Nigerian styles.
Team Nigerias athletes also dazzled in their culturally rich regalia, reflecting the diverse cultures of the country.
The Opening Ceremony itself was a dazzling spectacle with thousands of athletes sailing along the River Seine past lively performers on bridges, banks and rooftops.
Swapping a stadium for a waterway for the first time to open the “greatest show on Earth”, the near four-hour spectacle culminated in French judo great Teddy Riner and sprinter Marie-Jose Perec lighting a cauldron shaped like a hot air balloon that rose high into the Parisian sky.
Blue, white and red fireworks had raised the Tricolore above Austerlitz Bridge before 6,800 athletes from 205 delegations travelled on 85 boats and barges past some of the French capital’s most famous landmarks.
There were surprise performances through the ceremony, including a cabaret number from US singer-songwriter Lady Gaga, as well as an emotional return of Canadian icon Celine Dion.
A total of 206 nations and 10,714 athletes are participating in 32 sports and 329 events at the Paris 2024 Olympics