Adeola Adebo
April 3, 2025
Sports influencers play a significant role in shaping the sports culture in Nigeria. They bring fans closer to the action, provide expert analysis, and inspire the next generation of athletes. While football dominates Nigerian sports, several influencers from other fields also make a massive impact.
This post highlights some of the top sports influencers in Nigeria, showcasing their contributions and influence in the industry.
UTD Trey (Football Analyst & Social Media Influencer)
UTD Trey is a well-known football analyst and one of Nigeria’s most engaging sports influencers. With over 934,000 followers on X (formerly Twitter), he provides in-depth football analysis, match predictions, and discussions on trending topics. His posts often spark conversations among football lovers, making him a key figure in online sports media.
Why He Stands Out:
- Provides insightful football analysis
- Engages in thought-provoking debates
- Has a strong and active fanbase
Janine Anthony (Sports Journalist & Broadcaster)
Janine Anthony is a highly respected sports journalist who has made significant contributions to African sports media. As the founder of LadiesMarch, she champions the coverage of women’s football across Africa. She has worked with international media outlets like BBC and Sky Sports, cementing her reputation as a top sports analyst.
Why She Stands Out:
- Advocates for women’s sports
- Covers African football on international platforms
- Delivers expert sports analysis
Andrew Jacked (Bodybuilder & Fitness Influencer)
Andrew Jacked, also known as Chinedu Andrew Obiekea, is a professional bodybuilder and fitness coach. Originally an electrical engineer in the Nigerian army, he transitioned into bodybuilding and has since gained international recognition. He holds an IFBB Elite Pro card and has competed in Mr. Olympia, one of the most prestigious bodybuilding competitions in the world.
Why He Stands Out:
- One of Nigeria’s top fitness influencers
- Has an inspiring career transition story
- Competes at the highest level in bodybuilding
Uduak Ikara (Fitness Coach & Sports Nutritionist)
Uduak Ikara is a leading fitness influencer and sports nutritionist in Nigeria. She is the Creative Director of “TABATA FEST” and a two-time winner of Abuja’s Fittest Female. Through her social media platforms, she shares workout routines, fitness challenges, and nutrition tips that inspire thousands to live healthier lives.
Why She Stands Out:
- Provides expert fitness coaching
- Encourages women to embrace strength training
- Has a large social media following
Kanu Nwankwo (Retired Footballer & Philanthropist)
Although retired from professional football, Kanu Nwankwo remains a significant figure in Nigerian sports. He has transitioned into philanthropy and sports mentorship, using his Kanu Heart Foundation to support children with heart conditions. His social media presence keeps him relevant in the sports scene.
Why He Stands Out:
- Runs a successful sports charity
- Still influential in Nigerian football
- Engages with fans and young athletes
Enyinna Emeka (Sports Presenter & Host)
Enyinna Emeka is a dynamic sports presenter known for hosting engaging discussions about Nigerian and African sports. He provides expert opinions on various leagues, covering basketball, boxing, and athletics alongside football.
Why He Stands Out:
- Covers multiple sports beyond football
- Engages with a diverse audience
- Offers insightful sports commentary
Victor Osimhen (Professional Footballer & Social Media Personality)
Victor Osimhen is one of the few active footballers on this list. His Serie A title win with Napoli and engagement with fans on social media make him one of Nigeria’s biggest sports influencers. He regularly shares behind-the-scenes training content and motivational messages.
Why He Stands Out:
- One of the most followed Nigerian footballers
- Shares motivational and training content
- Actively engages with fans
Joy Ighovie (Sports Content Creator & Analyst)
Joy Ighovie is an emerging sports content creator focusing on basketball and athletics. Her deep knowledge of Nigerian basketball has positioned her as one of the leading voices in promoting the sport locally.
Why She Stands Out:
- Focuses on underrepresented sports
- Uses digital media to promote Nigerian basketball
- Provides expert sports analysis
Awoniyi Taiwo (Footballer & Digital Creator)
Awoniyi Taiwo is not just a professional footballer but also a rising content creator. He shares personal training videos, football insights, and lifestyle content that keeps fans engaged.
Why He Stands Out:
- Combines football with digital content creation
- Shares valuable training tips
- Engages with fans through storytelling
Joshua Iyalla (Sports Commentator & Instagram Influencer)
Joshua Iyalla is an online sports commentator who has built a strong following through his unique takes on Nigerian sports. His Instagram account features live match reactions, player analyses, and sports debates, making him a go-to source for sports discussions.
Why He Stands Out:
- Uses digital media effectively
- Engages in real-time sports commentary
- Covers a wide range of sports
Takeaway
Nigerian sports influencers continue to shape the industry by providing expert analysis, fitness motivation, and behind-the-scenes insights. Although football remains dominant, influencers from other sports are also gaining recognition.
If you’re a brand looking to collaborate with top Nigerian sports influencers, book a demo session with Aktivate today to connect with these figures in the industry.
