Tinubu Sends Team Nigeria Off in Grand Style Ahead of Commonwealth Games
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given Team Nigeria a presidential send-off ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, urging athletes to compete with honour, discipline, and excellence as ambassadors of the nation.
The President, represented by his Chief of Staff, Chief Femi Gbajabiamila, delivered the charge during a colourful ceremony at the Presidential Villa.
Gbajabiamila reminded the athletes that while medals are important, protecting Nigeria’s image and reputation is paramount.
‘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,’ he said.
Following the presidential ceremony, the National Sports Commission (NSC) led Team Nigeria to the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, where global sportswear giant PUMA was unveiled as the official kit partner for the Games.
The unveiling marked another milestone in the Commission’s drive to reposition Nigerian sports and provide world-class support for elite athletes.
NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to the success of Team Nigeria, stressing that the athletes have been given the best possible platform to excel.
‘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,’ Dikko said.
Director General of the Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, emphasized that discipline and exemplary conduct would remain non-negotiable throughout the Games. He warned that misconduct would attract strict sanctions, including expulsion from the Nigerian contingent.
‘Representing Nigeria is both an honour and a responsibility. We have zero tolerance for indiscipline, doping or any act capable of bringing the country into disrepute,’ Olopade stated.
The event was graced by distinguished personalities including former Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; Vice Chairman of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, Chief Solomon Ogba; Director General of the National Institute for Sports, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu; basketball legend Olumide Oyedeji; athletics icon Mary Onyali; and Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Anti-Doping Centre, Mallam Mainasara Ilo, alongside several sports administrators and former internationals.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2. Team Nigeria will compete in 10 sports, represented by 74 athletes, all aiming to bring glory to the nation.
