By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
With just eight days to the opening of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, Team Nigeria has expressed confidence in its readiness to compete for medals as athletes intensify final preparations for the multi-sport event.
Nigeria’s sprint sensation, Favour Ashe, said the team is well prepared and determined to uphold the country’s rich tradition at the Commonwealth Games, a statement by Kola Daniel, Special Assistant on Media, Office of the Director General noted.
“We have prepared well and everyone is focused on giving their best. Team Nigeria has a strong tradition at the Commonwealth Games, and we are confident we can compete for medals and make Nigerians proud,” Ashe said.
The Games will officially begin on Thursday, July 23, at The Hydro in Glasgow, where King Charles III and Queen Camilla will join thousands of athletes, officials, volunteers and spectators from across the Commonwealth for the Opening Ceremony.
More than 3,000 athletes from 74 Commonwealth nations and territories are expected to compete for 215 gold medals across 10 sports during the 11-day competition.
A major highlight of the ceremony will be King Charles III’s official declaration of the Games’ opening. The monarch will also read the message placed inside the King’s Baton on Commonwealth Day, March 10, 2025, at Buckingham Palace before the historic Baton Relay commenced.
The ceremony will also feature British cycling legend Sir Chris Hoy, the first Batonbearer, in a celebration of the enduring spirit and values of the Commonwealth Games.
Organizers said the King’s Baton Relay has completed its record 500-day journey through all 74 Commonwealth nations and territories, making it the longest relay in Commonwealth Games history.
For the first time, all 74 Batons will be reunited in Glasgow, symbolizing the unity, diversity and shared values of the Commonwealth.
The relay also supported the Commonwealth Clean Ocean Plastics Campaign, implemented in partnership with the Royal Commonwealth Society, which mobilized communities across member nations to help prevent one million pieces of plastic from entering Commonwealth waters.
Team Nigeria will be aiming to build on its impressive Commonwealth Games record, with athletes expected to challenge for podium finishes across several sports as the country seeks to reinforce its status as one of Africa’s leading sporting nations.
