Commonwealth Games: Go for Golds, NSC Charges Team Nigeria as Athletes Eye 16 Gold Medals
By Gabriel Kekong
Ahead of Team Nigeria’s departure for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, the leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC) has charged the nation’s contingent to go all out for gold medals as the athletes and officials prepare to leave for the competition.
Speaking during the team’s send-off, the Director-General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, said the Commission’s medal target is based on careful planning, strategic preparation, and deliberate execution.
“We believe in projections. Once a projection is submitted, we work tirelessly towards achieving it, and that is exactly what we have done,” Olopade said.
According to him, experience has shown that with adequate preparation, any athlete can be beaten, citing previous international competitions where favourites failed to make the podium.
“For the past one and a half years, it has been sleepless nights for me, members of the Commission, and my team. But to whom much is given, much is expected,” he said.
Olopade also warned the athletes that the Commission would not tolerate indiscipline.
“This is where we draw the line. No matter how big an athlete is, once he or she misbehaves, such a person will be expelled. If you spread negative narratives on social media, you will be expelled,” he warned.
Using a family analogy, he urged athletes to resolve grievances internally rather than taking them to the public.
“If your father forgets to give you pocket money before you travel, you don’t go outside to report your father. See every one of us as your family and parents. Talk to us if we are wrong, and we will apologise and correct whatever needs to be fixed. But if you do otherwise, you will be expelled.”
He reiterated that strict compliance with the Commission’s rules is mandatory.
“Everyone must abide by the rules of the National Sports Commission or stay at home. Whoever is out of the team is out,” Olopade declared.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the NSC, Shehu Dikko, urged the athletes to make Nigeria proud, expressing confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu looks forward to receiving a victorious Team Nigeria after the Games.
Meanwhile, Team Nigeria is targeting a haul of 16 gold medals at the Games.
A representative of PUMA, the official kit sponsor of Team Nigeria, expressed delight at partnering with the country and supporting its athletes on the international stage.
“We are delighted to witness the progress and achievements recorded so far. Working in partnership with the national platform demonstrates the kind of environment, innovation, and talent that Nigeria has to offer.
“We are honoured to play our part and will continue supporting efforts that make Nigeria proud. We want our people to showcase their talents, embrace innovation, and contribute to positive change that will make the country even better.
“Finally, we hope Nigeria will continue to foster unity, strengthen partnerships, and create opportunities for its people. We look forward to seeing Nigeria earn greater recognition on the global stage and remain among the best nations in the world.”
