President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Thursday, gave Team Nigeria a presidential send-off ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, charging the nation’s athletes to compete with honour, discipline and excellence as worthy ambassadors of Nigeria.
The President, represented by his Chief of Staff, Chief Femi Gbajabiamila, delivered the charge during a colourful ceremony at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Gbajabiamila reminded the athletes that while winning medals remains important, protecting Nigeria’s image and reputation is even more valuable.
“Medals are valuable, but integrity is priceless. As you wear the green and white, remember that you represent over 200 million Nigerians. Compete fairly, uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship, avoid all forms of misconduct, including doping, and make the nation proud”.
Following the presidential ceremony, the National Sports Commission (NSC) led Team Nigeria, officials and stakeholders to the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, where global sportswear giant PUMA was officially unveiled as the new kit partner for Team Nigeria for the Commonwealth Games.
The colourful unveiling ceremony marked another milestone in the Commission’s drive to reposition Nigerian sports and provide world-class support for the country’s elite athletes.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to the success of Team Nigeria.
“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.”
Director General of the Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, stressed that discipline and exemplary conduct would remain non-negotiable throughout the Games, warning that misconduct would attract strict sanctions, including expulsion from the Nigerian 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.”
Among the distinguished personalities at the events were the Ex Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; Vice Chairman, Nigeria Olympic Committee, Chief Solomon Ogba; Director General of the National Institute for Sports, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu; Nigerian basketball legend Olumide Oyedeji; athletics icon Mary Onyali; Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Anti-Doping Centre, Mallam Mainasara Ilo; as well as several sports administrators, former internationals and other key stakeholders.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2, with Team Nigeria set to compete in 10 sports, represented by 74 athletes, all aiming to bring glory to the nation.
