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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Thursday, gave the presidential salute to Team Nigeria 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, handed over the commission at a colorful ceremony at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Gbajabiamila reminded athletes that while winning medals remains important, protecting Nigeria’s image and reputation is even more valuable.
“Medals are precious, but integrity is priceless. As you wear the green and white jersey, remember that you represent over 200 million Nigerians. Compete fairly, maintain 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 Team Nigeria’s new kit partner for the Commonwealth Games.
The colorful inauguration ceremony marked another milestone in the Commission’s commitment to reposition Nigerian sport and provide world-class support to the country’s elite athletes.
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to the success of Team Nigeria.
“Today’s activities represent our commitment to giving Nigerian athletes their best as they compete on the global stage. We fully support Team Nigeria and have worked tirelessly to ensure they have the support, environment and confidence to succeed. We believe in this team and are confident they will make Nigeria proud.”
The Director General of the Commission, the Hon. Bukola Olopade, stressed that discipline and exemplary conduct will remain non-negotiable during the Games, warning that misconduct will attract severe sanctions, including expulsion from the Nigerian contingent.
“Every athlete and official must understand that representing Nigeria is both an honor 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 in default will face appropriate sanctions, including possible expulsion from the team.”
Among the illustrious personalities present at the events were former Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of Economy, Wale Edun; Vice President of the Nigerian Olympic Committee, Chief Solomon Ogba; Director General of the National Institute for Sports, Rt. Hon. Filippo Shaibu; Nigerian basketball legend Olumide Oyedeji; athletics icon Mary Onyali; The Executive Secretary of the Anti-Doping Center of Nigeria, 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 with the aim of bringing glory to the nation.
