Aaron Grandidier-Nkanang Hopes Olympic Triumph Inspires Nigerian Next-gen Athletes

Aaron Grandidier-Nkanang says his Olympic success with France can serve as inspiration for young Nigerian athletes, as he visits the country for the first time following his gold medal win at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The 25-year-old, who plays for Section Paloise and represents France in rugby sevens, was part of the squad that defeated Fiji 28–7 in the final to secure the host nation’s first Olympic title in the sport.

Grandidier-Nkanang said the victory, along with attending a presidential dinner in Paris during the visit of Bola Tinubu, prompted him to reflect on his Nigerian heritage and make the trip.

“Last year, when I was invited to the presidential state dinner … I truly understood that I am Nigerian and I needed to explore my roots,” he said.

Born in London to a British-Nigerian father and a French mother, Grandidier-Nkanang has lived across three cultures. Despite holding French nationality and building his professional career there, he said his upbringing in England largely shaped his identity, while his connection to Nigeria remained limited until recently.

During his visit to Lagos, he has engaged with young athletes through rugby clinics in Surulere and Victoria Island, where he showcased his Olympic gold medal to participants.

“I bring my gold medal everywhere … so that the children can see it, because I think it has such a big impact,” he said, noting that the visibility of Olympic success can help make sporting ambitions more tangible.

Grandidier-Nkanang said Nigeria possesses significant but underutilised athletic potential, pointing out that the country’s Olympic success does not yet reflect the capabilities seen among athletes of Nigerian descent globally.

“The genetic athletic potential is clearly there, it is currently just untapped,” he said.

He added that rugby could offer opportunities for development, citing the sport’s demand for speed, strength and resilience as qualities well suited to Nigerian athletes. However, he acknowledged that progress would require sustained investment in infrastructure and grassroots programmes.

“It needs a lot of funding and infrastructure … there is massive potential but it takes work, time and dedication,” he said.

Beyond rugby, Grandidier-Nkanang studied Product Design at Loughborough University and is also involved in music as a DJ. He said maintaining interests outside sport has helped him stay balanced throughout his career.

Looking ahead, he aims to defend France’s Olympic title at the next Games while strengthening his ties with Nigeria.

He also expressed appreciation for the reception he has received during his visit.

“Everywhere I went to in Lagos, I have been met with warmth, kindness, smiles, joy and openness,” he said.