Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has challenged Team Nigeria athletes to justify the nation’s investment in their preparations by delivering podium finishes as the 2026 Commonwealth Games get underway in Glasgow.
Olopade delivered the charge shortly after the Nigerian contingent arrived in Scotland, urging the athletes to compete with confidence and determination as they begin their quest for medals across various sports.
The NSC boss said the Commission had fulfilled its responsibility by ensuring the athletes received the support and preparations required for the Games, adding that the responsibility now rests with the competitors to make the country proud.
“We have done our part. Now it is your turn to repay the faith and confidence the nation has placed in you by giving your very best and fighting for podium finishes,” Olopade said.
To further motivate the athletes, the NSC also announced an enhanced performance incentive package, with every Nigerian athlete who wins a gold medal set to receive a cumulative reward of $8,000, comprising an instant cash award of $3,000 and a $5,000 performance bonus.
Olopade described the incentive as part of the Commission’s renewed commitment to rewarding excellence and encouraging Nigerian athletes to compete fearlessly against the best in the Commonwealth.
“Go out there, believe in yourselves and aim for gold. The nation is behind you, and we want you to make Nigeria proud,” he added.
The incentive package forms part of the NSC’s broader reforms aimed at improving athlete welfare and creating a performance-driven culture within Nigerian sports. The Commission has consistently maintained that rewarding success is essential to sustaining competitiveness at major international competitions.
Team Nigeria will compete in several events during the Games, with expectations high that the country will improve on its previous Commonwealth Games performances and add to its medal haul.
Competition begins today across multiple venues in Glasgow, with Nigerian athletes hoping to make an immediate impact as they begin their campaigns in pursuit of medals for the country.
