Amid the rhythmic buzz of daily life in Shomolu, Lagos, young Ruth Usoro dreamed far beyond the confines of her immediate reality. The youngest of four biological siblings and one non-biological sibling, Ruth grew up in a cramped one-room apartment. Despite her family’s financial struggles, hope blossomed in unlikely spaces.
From an early age, Ruth’s resilience was forged by hardship. Her older siblings hawked food, primarily fufu made from cassava, to support the household, often starting their rounds at dawn before school. These sacrifices underscored the family’s determination to survive. Reflecting on her journey, Ruth recalls a pivotal moment during her senior secondary school years:
“At one point, I almost had to drop out of school in SSS1 because we couldn’t afford the fees.”
Her academic journey began at Our Lady of Apostles in Yaba but was interrupted by financial constraints, prompting her transfer to National College Gbagada (NACOGBA).
Ruth’s passion for athletics emerged at age 10 under the mentorship of her late coach, Uruemu Adu. However, it was the 2008 Olympic Games that solidified her dreams. Watching athletes dominate the track, she made a bold declaration to her family: “I’m going to represent Nigeria someday.”
This conviction led her father to take her seriously, eventually accompanying her to the local stadium—a step that ignited her transformation. Ruth’s talent had surfaced even earlier during a Children’s Day race at the University of Lagos. Outrunning both boys and girls, she claimed a modest prize—a flask—that became her first trophy and a symbol of her untapped potential.
Her dedication to sports flourished through inter-house sports and regional competitions, even as she balanced the demands of her academic life. Her big break came through the “Adopt a Talent” program, an initiative by then-Governor Babatunde Fashola. This platform provided mentorship, financial support, and training, propelling Ruth to excel in long jump and 200-meter races and setting her on a path to national recognition.
From Lagos to the World Stage
In 2017, Ruth’s journey took a transformative turn when her late coach introduced her to Mary Onyali, a Nigerian track and field legend. Onyali recognised her potential and helped secure a scholarship to the United States. Despite an initial visa rejection, Ruth’s determination saw her through, marking the start of an illustrious international career.
She began her U.S. journey at South Plains College in Texas, earning an associate degree in communication studies. She later transitioned to Texas Tech University, where she completed bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mass communication. Alongside her academic pursuits, Ruth’s athletic career reached new heights, culminating in her triumph as a two-time NCAA national champion in 2021 and a four-time Big 12 champion in the triple jump.
Ruth’s journey transcends athletics; it also demonstrates her ability to confront societal biases. As a female athlete, she faced criticism for her muscular physique, with some questioning her femininity. Her response was unwavering: “I look like what I do,” turning her appearance into a badge of discipline and pride.
Growing up in Lagos, she also contended with cultural stigmas. Walking to practice in sportswear often drew judgemental stares, prompting her to change into her gear only at the stadium. These challenges only strengthened her resolve to excel and inspire others.
Faith, Family and Giving Back
Faith and family were central to Ruth’s resilience. Her father became her steadfast supporter, encouraging her early-morning jogs, while her mother offered cautious but vital encouragement. These pillars of support laid a foundation that helped Ruth navigate the complexities of her journey.
Now a celebrated athlete, Ruth is passionate about giving back to communities like Shomolu. She envisions creating mentorship programs to empower young girls and boys to rise above societal limitations and pursue their dreams.
Beyond athletics, Ruth co-founded Spirits Life 663, a merchandise company blending business and ministry. Inspired by her faith, the venture uses items like shirts, tote bags and hats to spread messages of hope and faith.
Competing at the Olympics stands as Ruth’s pinnacle achievement—a dream fulfilled through years of perseverance. Another highlight is her victory at the All Africa Games, where she claimed gold in the triple jump and proudly waved the Nigerian flag.
For Ruth, excellence is about giving one’s best, regardless of the odds. Drawing inspiration from a verse in the book of Proverbs, she encourages others to trust in God’s plan, explore their diverse talents, and embrace challenges with faith and determination.
Today, Ruth Usoro is one of Nigeria’s most accomplished athletes. A two-time NCAA national champion and reigning African Games triple jump champion, she recently showcased her talents on the global stage at the Paris Olympics. Through persistence, faith and a commitment to excellence, Ruth continues to inspire a generation, proving that greatness can emerge from even the humblest beginnings.
Ruth Usoro, hailing from Shomolu, Lagos, rose from humble beginnings to become a celebrated Nigerian athlete. Growing up in a financially struggling family, Ruth exhibited resilience, with her siblings working to support their household. Her passion for athletics was ignited at age 10, inspired by the 2008 Olympic Games, and further nurtured by her late coach Uruemu Adu. Ruth's determination to succeed in sports led to her discovery by Nigerian track legend Mary Onyali, securing her a scholarship to the United States despite initial visa rejections.
In the U.S., Ruth achieved significant academic and athletic success, earning degrees in communication studies and mass communication, while also becoming a two-time NCAA national champion and a four-time Big 12 champion in the triple jump. Her journey was marked by overcoming societal biases, including criticism for her muscular physique, which she embraced as a symbol of discipline. Supported by her family and faith, Ruth remains committed to empowering others, co-founding Spirits Life 663, a merchandise company that blends business with ministry.
Competing at the Olympics and winning gold at the All Africa Games are among Ruth's accomplishments, demonstrating her dedication and perseverance. Inspired by a verse from Proverbs, she encourages others to trust in God and embrace challenges. Ruth continues to inspire a generation with her story, underscoring that greatness can emerge from the most modest beginnings.
