Stephanie Onusiriuka eyes history as first Olympic Medalist for Nigeria in gymnastics

By Amaechi Agbo

At just 14 years old, Stephanie Ogechukwu Onusiriuka is already being tipped as the athlete who could rewrite Nigeria’s history in gymnastics — and perhaps deliver the nation’s first-ever Olympic medal in the sport.

The teenage sensation once again proved her class at the just-concluded National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State, where she dominated the gymnastics events and left no doubt about her rising star status. Representing Lagos State, Onusiriuka competed with poise, power, and precision, winning gold in the beam, vault, and the coveted all-round category. She also added two silvers — in the floor exercise and the team event — to crown a remarkable outing.

Her latest triumph builds on an already glittering record. At the 2023 Games, she stunned the crowd with four gold medals, instantly becoming the cynosure of all eyes and the poster girl for gymnastics in Nigeria. This year in Asaba, the focus was squarely on her once again — and she delivered.

But Stephanie’s ambition stretches far beyond the National Youth Games. Having had  training in London to hone her skills at world-class facilities, she has set her sights on competing — and medaling — at the World Championships, Commonwealth Games, and ultimately the Olympics.

“My dream is to represent Nigeria at the World Championships, Commonwealth Games, and the Olympics,” she told reporters after her win. “I am grateful to my parents and to everyone who has supported me so far, but I need access to top-class training facilities to compete with the best in the world without feeling intimidated. That is why I am appealing for private sector support. I believe I can be the first gymnast to win an Olympic medal for Nigeria if I am given the right opportunities.”

Her words echo a wider call for investment in grassroots sports development, especially in disciplines outside football and athletics where Nigeria has traditionally focused. With the right support, Stephanie’s talent, determination, and vision could put Nigeria on the global gymnastics map and inspire a new generation of athletes.

For now, she remains the shining star of the National Youth Games. But for Nigeria, the bigger story may be the possibility that this young girl could one day make history on the grandest stage of all — the Olympic Games.