Sports world marks Nigeria’s 66th Independence

Sports organisations, clubs and athletes at home and abroad joined Nigerians in celebrating the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary on Thursday, with messages of patriotism and tributes to the nation’s sporting heritage, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The National Sports Commission led the celebrations on the home front, reaffirming the role of sports in national development.

“Happy 66th Independence Anniversary, Nigeria. The National Sports Commission remains committed to harnessing the power of sports as a platform for opportunity, development, national pride and economic growth,” the commission stated.

The Nigeria Football Federation also marked the occasion with a motion graphic shared on its social media platforms.

Super Eagles striker Akor Adams posted, “Happy Independence Day, great Nigeria. Love you with all my heart.”

The Nigeria Premier Football League also joined the celebrations, posting simply, “Happy Independence Day, Nigeria.”

The Nigeria Cricket Federation also celebrated with a photograph of the Junior Female Yellow Greens, who are bound for the 2027 ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup.

“Today, we celebrate 66 years of independence with the spirit that defines Nigeria — resilience, unity, courage and an unwavering belief in what’s possible,” the federation stated.

“From every pitch to every pathway, from our people to our players, we keep moving forward. Nigeria is still in the crease. The innings continues. And the best is yet to come. Happy Independence Day, Nigeria! 66 NOT OUT.”

There were also European tributes following a long-standing connection between Nigerian football and clubs across the continent.

Spanish club Real Betis also joined the celebrations, posting a message with a picture of ex-international Finidi George who played for them from 1996 to 2000.

“Happy 66th Independence Day to all of our friends in Nigeria. Na big honour to rock di same colors!

The club’s message celebrated its connection with Nigerian supporters through the country’s green and white colours.

Meanwhile, Premier League club Everton paid tribute to several Nigerian players who have represented the Toffees.

Its graphic featured former Super Eagles stars Daniel Amokachi, Joseph Yobo, Yakubu Aiyegbeni, Victor Anichebe and Alex Iwobi, alongside Ademola Lookman and Super Falcons star Toni Payne.

“Happy Independence Day, Nigeria!” Everton posted.

Aiyegbeni remains Nigeria’s leading Premier League goalscorer with 95 goals in 252 appearances, while Iwobi is the Nigerian with the most appearances in the competition, having made 325 appearances as of October 2026.

Yobo made 228 Premier League appearances overall, while Amokachi became the first Nigerian to represent Everton when he joined the club in 1994.

Sevilla also celebrated Nigeria’s Independence Day with a video showcasing goals scored by Nigerian players who have represented the Spanish club, including Chidera Ejuke, Kelechi Iheanacho and Akor Adams. Adams is now at Venezia while Iheanacho plays for Bursaspor currently.

German Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen also joined the celebrations with a Nigeria-themed tribute featuring Victor Boniface and Nathan Tella during their 2024 title celebrations.