The Story Behind Nigeria’s 2024 Olympic Team Outfits

By Njideka Agbo

What better way to show Nigeria’s originality and authenticity than to use Nigerian products? On 26 July, over 29 million people tuned in to watch the 2024 Olympics opening night.

Beyond the iconic yet controversial ceremony served by the host country, which kept audiences worldwide glued to their TV sets and social media, the outfits worn by the different national contingents were the other major highlights that garnered attention. Even to the untrained fashion eye, there was a consensus that the details of the fabrics and designs should tell a story.

As the teams paraded, all eyes were on Nigeria, led by Olympic gold medalist Tobi Amusan, adorned in aso oke. True to form, Nigeria did not disappoint in the fashion department. Known for their eccentric sense of style and cultural pride, the Green, White, and Green colours were worn with pride.

Rated fourth by PEOPLE Magazine at the last Olympics in Tokyo, the story behind Nigeria’s outfits is filled with fascinating surprises with 100% of its work done in the country, including Afrikstabel’s innovative use of Nigerian cotton.

FUNTUA COTTON

Actively Black, a small athleisure brand with just eight staff, secured the contract and teamed up with Amen, Amen. Studio to create futuristic athleisure designs accentuated by adiré. Afrikstabel Textiles, a textile manufacturing company, used Funtua Nigeria cotton to create the adiré fabric, which was then expertly pieced by Lekki Garment Factory.

“Funtua was the best option because the cotton is grown in Nigeria and the supply chain is also from Nigeria. So, what better way to show Nigeria’s originality and authenticity than to use Nigerian products? Thankfully, when I pitched this idea to Amen, Amen. Studio, they jumped on it. Because of this, Funtua has now graced the Olympics for the second time,” said Ifebuche Madu, founder of Afrikstabel.

Known for its high quality, Funtua cotton, named after the town where it is grown and harvested, is embraced by textile manufacturers and fashion designers committed to sustainability.

READ MORE: Cotton production in Nigeria: The Ogun example

At Afrikstabel’s factory, after dyeing the fabrics, the toxins from the dye waste are treated and disinfected in a plant which converts toxins into water, ensuring environmental safety.

This process highlights the intentional effort of the collective team to produce a Made in Nigeria fit that all Nigerians can be proud of. Indeed, Nigeria’s Olympic team’s outfits are more than just fashion statements; they showcase the incredible talent and dedication of Nigerian textile manufacturers and designers.

As the world celebrates the Olympics, be sure to witness how Nigeria continues to shine, both on and off the field.