Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC) Mallam Shehu Dikko, says Team Nigeria is on course to win between 16 and 20 gold medals at the forthcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Dikko spoke yesterday in Abuja during the official unveiling of Puma apparel as Team Nigeria’s official kit for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
He attributed the country’s medal projection to early planning, talent identification and sustained investment in athlete preparation.
“Our preparations did not begin today. They started long before now with talent discovery, systematic development and continuous monitoring of our athletes,” he said.
He said the commission had provided the necessary support to enable the athletes compete successfully in Glasgow.
“We are projecting between 16 and 20 gold medals because we have confidence in the quality of our athletes and the work already done,” Dikko said.
According to him, Team Nigeria will depart about 20 days before the Games to acclimatise and perfect final preparations.
“We will continue motivating the athletes and providing every necessary support to maximise their performance at the Games,” he said.
Also speaking, the Director-General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, said the commission’s projection was backed by careful planning and deliberate execution.
Olopade said the commission remained committed to delivering results through hard work and proper coordination.
“We believe every projection must be backed by action. For over one year, we have worked tirelessly to prepare this team for success,” he said.
He noted that major international competitions had shown that adequate preparation could upset established favourites.
“Success is earned through discipline, preparation and sacrifice. That is the culture we have built within Team Nigeria,” Olopade said.
He warned that indiscipline would not be tolerated throughout the Games.
“No athlete is bigger than Team Nigeria. Anyone who breaches our code of conduct or brings the team into disrepute will face appropriate sanctions,” he said.
Olopade urged athletes to resolve grievances through internal channels instead of social media.
“We are one family. If there are issues, engage the commission. Public attacks will not be accepted under any circumstance,” he said.
The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Philip Shaibu, also expressed confidence in Team Nigeria’s medal prospects.
Shaibu said the athletes had enjoyed one of the best preparations in recent years.
“We thank God for the timely preparation. Everything required for training and participation has been provided for the athletes,” he said.
He urged Team Nigeria to reward Nigerians with outstanding performances.
“They should appreciate the support they have received by making Nigeria proud and winning medals in Glasgow,” Shaibu said.
According to him, the commitment and determination displayed by the athletes inspire confidence.
“From what I have seen, this team has the capacity to return home with at least 20 gold medals,” he said.
Shaibu added that the NIS had intensified grassroots sports development to expand Nigeria’s talent pool.
“We are taking sports to the grassroots to discover more talents and ensure Nigeria remains competitive at major international competitions,” he said