TikTokChampioning African athletes with the precision of a coach and the heart of a true fan, say hello to Dr. Ademola—a passionate Naija sports fan with a deep love for football and athletics.
What inspired you to begin posting on TikTok, and how has the journey been so far?
Before TikTok became popular, I was already sharing sports and exercise-related content on other social media platforms. However, as TikTok began gaining traction, I recognized its potential for creating fun and engaging content. As an exercise physiologist and passionate sports fan, I felt a strong urge to promote physical activity and keep young people informed about our national teams and their performances.
The journey so far has been incredible. TikTok has helped me find my community, and I’ve realized that it’s a platform where you can go viral if you have a deep understanding of your niche and consistently create engaging high-quality content.
Paris was a big moment. How do you feel being part of the creators documenting these events?
Paris 2024 was my first Olympic experience, and it exceeded all my expectations. From studying exercise physiology to capturing unforgettable behind-the-scenes moments, being part of the team documenting this historic event was a dream come true. I’m grateful for every lesson, story, and memory made during the Games, as the entire experience was truly fulfilling and taught me so much.
What was your most memorable moment, and can you share a behind-the-scenes experience?
One memorable moment for me was speaking with Rena Wakama, the coach of Nigeria’s female basketball team, D’Tigress, right after we were knocked out of the tournament in the quarterfinals against the USA. Despite the loss, we talked about how the team made history by defeating the world’s number 3 team, Australia, and the number 5 team, Canada. They became the first African team, male or female, to reach the quarterfinals in Olympic basketball.
Another standout moment was navigating the city by rail and bus. I even created a video explaining how to get to the competition venue on a budget, which many of my followers found incredibly helpful.
What role do you think TikTok plays in how fans experience major sporting events?
TikTok plays a pivotal role in enhancing how fans experience major sporting events. The platform provides high-quality, real-time updates during competitions, and its algorithm is designed to identify users' interests, often recommending updates before they even search for it. TikTok’s ability to cater to individual needs has truly revolutionized how fans engage with sports.
Can you share any best practices for engaging your audience with interactive or live content during major events?
When creating live content during major events, I ensure that I provide real-time, relevant information. On TikTok, I’ve learned the importance of getting straight to the point, especially when delivering live updates to fans. This approach helps both my audience and me make the most of our time.
How do you handle the pressure to stay on top of trends and be innovative with your content during such a high-profile event?
Staying on top of every trend can be challenging, so I prioritize content that’s relevant to my audience and niche. It’s important to strike a balance between being timely and maintaining the quality and accuracy of the information I share. Misinformation can damage credibility, so I always ensure my content is accurate, even if it means not jumping on every trend.
What advice would you give to other creators who want to grow and be part of big events or sporting moments on their platforms?
My biggest piece of advice is to be consistent. The more you create, the better you become. Don’t let the pursuit of perfection hold you back from starting. With experience, you’ll naturally improve. So, just begin creating, and over time, you’ll find your rhythm and grow.
