Nigeria Can Surpass 16-Gold Projection at Commonwealth Games

Nigeria Can Surpass 16-Gold Projection at Commonwealth Games

By Niyi Busari 

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has reaffirmed its commitment to providing optimal preparation, welfare and support for Team Nigeria ahead of the forthcoming Commonwealth Games, with a target of securing a top-five finish at the competition, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Director-General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, made this known on Friday in Abuja after a series of strategic meetings with sports federations, including those representing American Flag Football, Karate and Mixed Martial Arts.

Olopade described the engagements as productive and aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s sporting ecosystem.

“Today has been a very busy day. We held meetings with several federations, and while most of the discussions were successful, we are still working to resolve some outstanding issues with the Karate Federation. I am confident that a resolution will be reached very soon,” he said.

He identified preparations for the Commonwealth Games and Nigeria’s campaign at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) as the country’s major sporting priorities over the next two months.

According to him, the Federal Government, under President Bola Tinubu, has provided significant support and funding to enhance the nation’s readiness for major international competitions.

“We have been working for several weeks and months on plans for the Commonwealth Games, while the Nigeria Football Federation is also making arrangements for WAFCON. As we speak, the Super Falcons are playing Senegal in Ikene. Nigerians always expect excellence whenever our athletes compete on the international stage,” he said.

Olopade emphasised that athlete welfare remains central to the Commission’s preparations.

“We have consistently maintained that athlete welfare is our top priority. Today’s discussions focused on welfare packages, travel arrangements and support measures that will ensure our athletes are comfortable and adequately prepared for competition,” he said.

He disclosed that some athletes would travel in business class, while Team Nigeria’s training and competition kits had already been produced and packaged for distribution.

“For the first time, every athlete’s kit bag will contain close to 20 apparel items. Everything is ready for distribution, and we are finalising welfare packages ahead of the commencement of camping on June 9 in Abuja,” he added.

The NSC boss further revealed that Team Nigeria would depart for Aberdeen on July 2 after a planned meeting with President Tinubu, during which the athletes are expected to receive the nation’s official charge ahead of the Games.

Following the presidential meeting, the team will undertake an additional three-and-a-half weeks of training and acclimatisation in Aberdeen.

“We have secured an excellent training facility there, and I have personally visited the camp twice to ensure that every arrangement meets the standards our athletes deserve,” Olopade said.

In a departure from previous practice, he announced that all athletes travelling to Abuja for camp had been directed to fly rather than travel by road, with the NSC covering all transportation costs.

“This decision is about safety, comfort and ensuring that our athletes arrive in camp in the best possible condition,” he said.

On incentives, Olopade confirmed that substantial rewards had been approved for medal-winning athletes, although details would be announced by President Tinubu.

“Gold, silver and bronze medallists will receive attractive incentives. However, the formal announcement will be made by the Grand Patron of Team Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.

He expressed confidence that Nigerian athletes are benefiting from unprecedented levels of preparation and welfare support.

“Our athletes have never had it this good in terms of preparation, welfare and the support structures that will be available to them when they arrive in camp,” he said.

Speaking on medal prospects, Olopade cited an assessment conducted by Yusuf Ali, Chief Executive Officer of the Elite Athletes Development and Podium Board, which projects that Team Nigeria could win about 16 gold medals and 20 silver medals at the Commonwealth Games.

However, he challenged both athletes and federations to exceed those expectations.

“While the scientific assessment projects about 16 gold medals, I have challenged the federations to aim higher. I believe Nigeria can win at least 20 gold medals. Achieving that would place us among the top five nations at the Commonwealth Games, and I do not believe that is beyond our capabilities,” he said.

Olopade concluded by apologising for the delay in addressing journalists and reiterated the Commission’s determination to ensure a successful outing for Team Nigeria at the Games.For a newspaper front-page style, I can also make it tighter, more concise, and punchier with stronger news angles and quotes.