Chiereka Ukogu Is Nigeria’s First Olympics Rowing Athlete

For the first time ever, Nigeria will be represented at the Olympics rowing event in 2016 by a resilient 23 year old woman.

But this feat didn’t come easy for Chierika Ukogu, who had to put off medical school for 2 years just to make her dream of representing Nigeria at the Olympics possible.

via Instagram

Despite not receiving any financial help from the Nigerian government, this Stanford University graduate funded her training and travel expenses through her full-time job and T-shirt sales.

via Instagram

However, with the Olympics drawing nearer, the need to train harder drove Chiereka to raise more funds via her GoFundMe page.

via Instagram

Although she was born and raised by Nigeria parents in the U.S, Chiereka is thrilled to be the first Nigerian athlete to row at the Olympics

via Instagram

What motivates her isn’t just her personal goal to be a great athlete, but also the need to promote sports in Africa and also inspire young people in Nigeria and the U.S.

via Instagram

We’re so proud of Chiereka! We wish her all the best and hope she brings all the gold home.