Commonwealth Games: NSC targets 20 gold medals for Team Nigeria

Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, has expressed confidence that Team Nigeria can win between 16 and 20 gold medals at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.

Speaking during the unveiling of Puma as the official kit sponsor for Team Nigeria on Thursday in Abuja, Dikko disclosed the medal target was based on months of preparation, talent development and sustained investment in the athletes.

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He noted that preparations began long before the Games through talent discovery, systematic development and continuous monitoring, adding that the commission had provided the necessary support for the athletes.

“We are projecting between 16 and 20 gold medals because we have confidence in the quality of our athletes and the work already done,” he said.

Dikko added that Team Nigeria would depart about 20 days before the Games to acclimatise and complete final preparations.

Also speaking, NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade said the target was backed by careful planning and hard work, stressing that discipline would be strictly enforced throughout the competition.

He warned that any athlete who breached the team’s code of conduct or brought the country into disrepute would face sanctions, urging team members to resolve grievances through internal channels rather than social media.

Director-General of the National Institute for Sports, Philip Shaibu, also backed the medal projection, saying the athletes had enjoyed one of the best preparations in recent years.

He expressed optimism that Team Nigeria has the capacity to return from Glasgow with at least 20 gold medals.

The 2026 Commonwealth Games will be held in Glasgow from July 23 to August 2.

NAN