The National Sports Commission (NSC) has unveiled a comprehensive plan to prepare 14-year-old gymnast Stephanie Ogechukwu Onusiriuka for a medal-winning performance at the 2028 Olympics.
Described as Nigeria’s answer to Simone Biles, Onusiriuka has already made a name for herself on the global stage, earning medals at national and international competitions. Now, the NSC is stepping in to ensure she remains a vital part of Nigeria’s sporting future.
According to SportsNow, NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko, during a reception for Onusiriuka and her mother, emphasised the Commission’s commitment to preventing the loss of top talents to other nations.
“Aggressive grassroots talent hunting will be put in place, and these talents will be nurtured and supported to achieve their dreams,” Dikko said. “This era of losing our best sporting talents to foreign countries is over.”
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Onusiriuka, who trains at Leeds Gymnastics and is a member of a UK gymnastics club, recently completed her Senior Secondary Certificate Education (SSCE) exams. Her parents have reportedly been fielding inquiries from her UK club regarding her return. However, the NSC is determined to invest in her development and ensure she represents Nigeria.
“She will be part of our elite plans and preparations,” Dikko said. “By 2026, she’ll be ready for the Commonwealth Games, and in 2028, she can be a major medal prospect at the Olympics. Whatever we do for the likes of Ese Brume, we will do for her.”
The Commission plans to incorporate Onusiriuka into its elite program, which includes financial support, sponsorships, and potential private sector partnerships under the Adopt-an-Athlete initiative. A dedicated desk officer will also be assigned to monitor her progress closely.
At just 11 years old, Onusiriuka won one gold, two silver, and one bronze at the National Sports Festival in Edo in 2021. She emerged as the best gymnast at the 2023 National Youth Games in Delta, winning four gold medals. Internationally, she has two gold medals from the African Club Championships in South Africa (2019 and 2022).
Dikko acknowledged that the next four to five years would be crucial for Onusiriuka’s development, highlighting the relatively short peak window for gymnasts. “By 2028, she’ll be 18, the perfect age to get us on the Olympic podium,” he said.
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