Team Nigeria Shine, Draw Cheers
By Sola Ojewusi
Last night, the Paris 2024 Olympic Games kicked off with a spectacular and historically unique opening ceremony in the City of Light and Love, leaving an indelible mark on the history of the Games. Against the backdrop of a picturesque Parisian landscape, Team Nigeria made a grand entrance, shining brightly at La Grande Seine despite a downpour.
In an innovative twist, the ceremony deviated from tradition by being held outside a stadium, transforming Paris into a breathtaking stage. The event utilized the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Austerlitz Bridge, Louvre, Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral, and the Eiffel Tower, creating a visually stunning spectacle that captivated viewers worldwide.
Team Nigeria, consisting of 88 athletes—63 women and 25 men—arrived in style, led by flagbearer Tobi Amusan and general captain Anuoluwapo Opeyori. Their entrance was met with applause and admiration as they embarked on a four-mile boat cruise along the Seine River, passing through the notable Parisian landmarks.
The opening ceremony began with a stunning display of coloured smoke resembling the French flag rising over the Pont d’Austerlitz.
Fans and spectators were in keen attendance, and – for the most part – were undeterred by the wet weather.
French President Emmanuel Macron was watching alongside President of the International Olympic Committee Thomas Bach.
Various celebrities attended the evening, including American singer Ariana Grande with her British Wicked co-star Cynthia Erivo.
As expected there was a heightened security presence, with tens of thousands of police deployed across the city.
Members of the French Armed Forces in a motor boat are seen through a boat’s porthole on the river Seine as they patrol prior to the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in Paris
Security forces deploy at the top of the French Parliament during the Opening Ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games
Throughout the event, a mystery masked torchbearer was running and parkour-ing their way through the city on riverside rooftops.
Fleets of team boats, with countries from all around the world, sailed down the Seine, flying their flags with pride.
The 2024 Olympic Games, running from July 26 to August 11, will feature 10,714 athletes from 206 countries competing across various sports. Team Nigeria is set to compete in 12 sports, bringing hope and excitement to their fans back home.
The opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics has set a new standard for future Games, blending the rich cultural heritage of Paris with the spirit of international sportsmanship, ensuring that the City of Light and Love will be remembered as the birthplace of one of the most memorable Olympic opening ceremonies in history.
