The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, has applauded Team Nigeria for its outstanding display at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, saying the contingent embodied resilience, determination and the true spirit of the nation throughout the competition.
In a message posted on his official X account after the Games ended, Olopade praised the athletes, coaches and officials for their dedication, stressing that Nigeria’s achievements went far beyond the 24 medals won at the tournament.
The Nigerian team finished with 10 gold, seven silver and seven bronze medals to emerge as the highest-ranked African nation at the Games.
“As we have drawn the curtain on an unforgettable #Glasgow2026 Commonwealth Games, I am immensely proud of every athlete, coach and official who represented Nigeria,” he wrote.
“You competed with courage, honour and determination, proving once again that the Nigerian spirit can never be broken. Beyond the medals, you inspired millions of Nigerians, restored confidence in our sporting future and showed the world that Nigerian sports is on a steady path of renewal and excellence.”
Olopade said the medal tally was a testament not only to the country’s sporting talent but also to the discipline, resilience and dedication displayed by Team Nigeria throughout the Games.
“Beyond our 24 medals (10🥇, 7🥈, 7🥉) is not just a reflection of talent, but of discipline, resilience and the commitment to fly our nation’s flag with pride,” he stated.
The NSC Director General also extended gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his continued backing of sports development.
He equally acknowledged the efforts of the National Sports Commission Chairman, Commonwealth Games Nigeria, sports federations, coaches, officials and Nigerians whose support motivated the team during the competition.
“My profound appreciation goes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his steadfast support for sports development; to the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko; Commonwealth Games Nigeria, our Sports Federations, coaches, officials and the millions of Nigerians whose prayers, encouragement and belief inspired Team Nigeria throughout this campaign.”
According to Olopade, Nigeria’s performance in Glasgow marked another significant step in the ongoing revival of the country’s sports sector under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He encouraged the athletes to view their exploits in Glasgow as a foundation for greater achievements, assuring them of the commission’s continued commitment to creating opportunities through its Athlete-First Policy.
“To our athletes, this is not the end of the journey but the beginning of greater accomplishments. Continue to uphold the values of discipline, integrity and excellence. The National Sports Commission remains fully committed to an Athlete-First Policy and will continue to provide the support and opportunities needed for you to achieve even greater success for Nigeria.”
He concluded by wishing the Nigerian contingent a safe trip back home while expressing confidence in the future of the country’s sports.
“Safe journey home, champions. Thank you for making Nigeria proud. The future is bright, and together, we will keep raising the Green and White on the biggest stages of world sport.”
