Dakar lit up on Saturday as Team Nigeria, led by sprint sensation Rosemary Chigozie Nwankwo, marched into the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium at Diamniadio for the opening of the 2026 Youth Olympic Games, a vibrant celebration of African culture, unity and sporting excellence.

Nwankwo, one of Nigeria’s brightest medal hopes, was the country’s flagbearer. She carried the colours before thousands of spectators and a global audience, symbolising the aspirations of the 19 Nigerian athletes competing across six sports. The young sprinter is expected to be among Nigeria’s leading contenders in athletics, particularly in the women’s 100m, where she will look to turn her impressive potential into a podium finish.

The ceremony was historic for Africa, as Senegal became the first African country to host an Olympic sporting event. Young athletes from across the world gathered for the fourth edition of the Summer Youth Olympic Games.

Senegalese culture and hospitality were on full display, with music, dance, colourful performances and elaborate choreography setting the tone for 13 days of competition across Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly.

A defining moment came with the arrival of the Youth Olympic flame at the stadium, after an extraordinary journey through Senegal’s 14 administrative regions over more than 45 days. The flame was carried around the stadium before the lighting of the official cauldron, formally ushering in the Games and symbolising the friendship, peace and unity that underpin the Olympic movement.

In the packed stadium, the Nigerian contingent dazzled in colourful green and white attire.

Nigeria will compete in athletics, boxing, road cycling, swimming, table tennis and beach volleyball. The contingent comprises 19 athletes, including 12 women and seven men. (The Sun)