Two days after etching his name into Nigeria’s sporting history at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, Riluwan Idris has opened up on the personal promise that inspired him to become the country’s first male gold medallist, revealing that he arrived in Scotland determined to silence critics who doubted Nigeria’s male para powerlifters.
Idris claimed gold in the Men’s Heavyweight Para Powerlifting event to cap a memorable debut at the Commonwealth Games, joining Nigeria’s growing list of medal winners in a campaign that has already showcased the country’s dominance on the powerlifting platform.
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Reflecting on the journey, the Commonwealth champion said his motivation came from repeated claims that Nigeria’s men were incapable of matching the achievements of their female counterparts.
“This is my first Commonwealth Games. I’ve competed at other international events before, but this is my first time participating here. Before coming, I made a promise to myself that I must become Nigeria’s first male gold medallist because a lot of people have been saying that the men cannot deliver gold medals. I wanted to prove them wrong, and I thank God today that the gold medal is mine.”
The victory was particularly significant for Idris, who had never competed at the Commonwealth Games before. His triumph not only fulfilled a personal ambition but also answered those who questioned whether Nigeria’s male lifters could stand on the top step of the podium.
Beyond the gold medal, Idris also praised the National Sports Commission (NSC) for fulfilling its promise to reward medal-winning athletes immediately. He confirmed receiving the Commission’s $5,000 cash incentive for winning gold, describing the gesture as a major boost for athletes representing the country.
“I want to thank the National Sports Commission for fulfilling its promise. I have received my $5,000, and I sincerely appreciate the support. It is a great motivation for us to keep giving our best and making Nigeria proud.”
The immediate payment of performance bonuses has been one of the defining features of Team Nigeria’s campaign in Glasgow. Under the leadership of NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, the Commission has ensured that athletes receive their rewards without delay, a move that has drawn widespread praise from members of the Nigerian contingent.
Sports247 observed that Idris’ story has become one of the most inspiring narratives of the Games for Team Nigeria. While his gold medal added to the country’s impressive medal haul, his determination to challenge the perception surrounding Nigeria’s male para powerlifters has resonated with athletes and fans alike.
With his first Commonwealth Games now behind him, Idris has not only fulfilled the promise he made to himself before leaving Nigeria but has also written a new chapter in the country’s sporting history—one that will inspire future generations of Nigerian athletes to believe that no challenge is beyond their reach.
