President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has challenged Team Nigeria to aim higher than ever before at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, urging athletes to compete with honour, discipline and integrity. The President delivered the charge during a presidential send-off ceremony at the State House in Abuja on Thursday, just before the contingent departed for Scotland.
Presidential Call for Historic Performance
President Tinubu, represented by his Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, stated that the nation's ambition is to surpass its best-ever Commonwealth Games performance. According to a statement by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President expressed confidence in the selected athletes and urged them to embrace the responsibility of wearing Nigeria's colours.
"Our target is clear. We want Team Nigeria to surpass its best-ever Commonwealth Games performance. I have every confidence that you possess the talent, determination, and character to achieve this historic feat," Tinubu said. He reminded athletes that years of preparation had brought them to this stage and encouraged unity throughout the competition.
"You have trained for this moment. You have sacrificed for this moment. Go to Glasgow with confidence, discipline, and unity. Go with patriotism and with the mindset that Nigeria can stand with the very best in the world," he added.
Lessons from Birmingham and Integrity Emphasis
The President also referenced lessons from Nigeria's previous appearance at the Commonwealth Games, stressing that athletes must project the country's positive values. "We must remember that we're exporting our values, our moral values, our core values as a nation. I know what happened last time in Birmingham, perhaps maybe an error of judgment, and that nothing like that will happen this time around, and that experience must be a lesson for all of us," Tinubu said.
He further emphasised that success must be achieved fairly, urging Team Nigeria to reject misconduct and uphold sportsmanship. "I want you to compete with courage, honour, and integrity. Win clean. Let every medal you earn reflect your commitment, your dedication, and the values that define our great nation. Winning is important, but winning clean is more important. Medals are valuable, but integrity is priceless," he stated. The President also reaffirmed his administration's commitment to strengthening sports development through investment in athletes and strict compliance with anti-doping regulations.
PUMA Unveiled as Official Kit Partner
Following the send-off, the National Sports Commission (NSC) officially unveiled global sportswear giant PUMA as Team Nigeria's new official kit partner during a ceremony at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja. This partnership is part of broader efforts to improve athlete welfare and preparation by collaborating with globally recognised brands.
NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko described the development as a significant step. "Today's activities represent our commitment to giving Nigerian athletes the very best as they compete on the global stage. We are fully behind Team Nigeria and have worked tirelessly to ensure they have the support, environment and confidence to succeed. We believe in this team, and we are confident they will make Nigeria proud," Dikko said.
NSC Warns Against Indiscipline and Doping
Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, delivered a strong warning to athletes and officials, insisting that discipline would not be compromised. He stated that anyone found guilty of misconduct or actions damaging Nigeria's image could face severe sanctions, including removal from the contingent.
"Every athlete and official must understand that representing Nigeria is both an honour and a responsibility. Your conduct must be exemplary on and off the field of play. We have zero tolerance for indiscipline, doping or any act capable of bringing the country into disrepute. Anyone found wanting will face appropriate sanctions, including possible expulsion from the team," Olopade warned.
Notable Attendees and Team Captaincy
Several notable personalities attended the ceremonies, including former Minister of Finance Wale Edun, Nigeria Olympic Committee vice chairman Solomon Ogba, National Institute for Sports Director General Philip Shaibu, basketball legend Olumide Oyedeji, athletics icon Mary Onyali, and Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Anti-Doping Centre Mainasara Ilo, alongside sports administrators and former internationals.
Legit.ng previously reported that Nigeria's most decorated para powerlifter, Folashade Oluwafemiayo, has been appointed captain of Team Nigeria for the 2026 Commonwealth Games. The NSC said the decision reflects her remarkable achievements, professionalism and consistency. She will lead 74 Nigerian athletes competing across 10 sports from July 23 to August 2.
