Osaze Odemwingie Aims for Nigeria’s First Olympic Golf Medal
Former Super Eagles striker Osaze Odemwingie has shared his goal of getting Nigeria involved in golf at the Olympics and winning the country’s first gold in the sport.
After retiring from football in 2018, Odemwingie transitioned into professional golf and is now focused on developing the sport in Nigeria. He hopes to inspire a new generation of Nigerian golfers and sees a great opportunity for the country in the Olympics.
Odemwingie, who began playing golf towards the end of his football career at West Bromwich Albion, graduated from the Professional Golfers Association (PGA) school in June 2024. He believes the return of golf to the Olympics in 2016 provides a unique chance for Nigeria.
“If I can’t play as a golfer, I can at least be part of a team that will represent Nigeria,” Odemwingie told BBC Sport Africa.
“I want to introduce golf to people and help build a new generation of golfers from Nigeria who will one day compete in the Olympics,” he added.
Having been part of the Nigerian team that won silver in men’s football at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Odemwingie understands the importance of the event. He believes an Olympic medal would help raise awareness for golf in Nigeria and secure government support for the sport.
Odemwingie is also dedicated to promoting golf across Nigeria. He is working on establishing a golf academy in Benin City and plans to engage with government officials and corporations to highlight the sport’s benefits.
“If we have more golf courses, it can bring tourism, and kids could get scholarships abroad. Golf is like any other sport—if you start early, you can have a chance to become great,” he explained.
Odemwingie’s football career included stints at Bendel Insurance in Nigeria and several European clubs such as West Bromwich Albion, Lille, and Stoke City. He earned 65 caps for the Super Eagles, scoring 11 goals.
