By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, and the Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, arrived in Glasgow, Scotland, to lead Team Nigeria’s campaign at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, following a presidential mandate to deliver a strong medal-winning performance.
The duo is spearheading Nigeria’s participation at the Games after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, through his Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, charged the country’s athletes to compete with determination and make the nation proud during the official send-off ceremony in Abuja.
Delivering the President’s message, Gbajabiamila assured the athletes of the Federal Government’s full support and urged them to strive for podium finishes.
He said the President was firmly behind the team and encouraged the athletes to win medals, assuring them that a grateful nation would reward their achievements.
The President’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Hon. Sunday Dare, also reiterated the administration’s expectations, saying Team Nigeria’s mission in Glasgow was clear—to win medals and surpass the country’s performance at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Dare further charged NSC Director General, Hon. Olopade, to remain focused on the assignment and ensure the Nigerian contingent delivers an outstanding outing.
In Glasgow, Mallam Dikko is representing Nigeria at Commonwealth Games Federation and ministerial meetings, where he is championing the country’s interests while providing strategic leadership for Team Nigeria.
As Chef de Mission, Hon. Olopade is overseeing the daily operations of the Nigerian delegation, including the welfare and well-being of athletes and officials throughout the competition.
With the athletes fully settled in the Games Village and events already underway, the NSC expressed confidence that months of preparation, improved athlete welfare and strong presidential backing would inspire Team Nigeria to achieve another memorable Commonwealth Games campaign.
Nigeria is participating in the Games with a contingent of 72 athletes competing in 10 sports: athletics, 3×3 basketball, judo, boxing, track cycling, weightlifting, swimming, parapowerlifting, 3×3 wheelchair basketball and para athletics.
