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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday charged Team Nigeria to compete with honour, discipline and excellence as worthy ambassadors of Nigeria at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow, reports Completesports.com.
The President made the charge while addressing the Team Nigeria leadership during a presidential send-off ceremony at the Aso Rock Villa.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Chief Femi Gbajabiamila, Tinubu urged the athletes to fly the Nigerian flag with pride.
He reminded the athletes that while winning medals remains important, protecting Nigeria’s image and reputation is even more valuable, adding that they would be handsomely rewarded if they made the country proud.
Also Read: Oluwafemiayo Named Team Nigeria Captain For 2026 Commonwealth Games
“Medals are valuable, but integrity is priceless. As you wear the green and white, remember that you are representing over 200 million Nigerians. Compete fairly, uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship, avoid all forms of misconduct, including doping, and make the nation proud,” Tinubu said.
Commonwealth Games 2026: PUMA Unveiled As Team Nigeria’s Official Kit Partner
Following the presidential ceremony, the National Sports Commission (NSC) led Team Nigeria, officials and stakeholders to the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, where global sportswear giant PUMA was officially unveiled as the new kit partner for Team Nigeria ahead of the Commonwealth Games.
The colourful unveiling ceremony marked another milestone in the Commission’s drive to reposition Nigerian sports and provide world-class support for the country’s elite athletes.
NSC Reaffirms Full Backing For Team Nigeria
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to the success of Team Nigeria at the Commonwealth Games 2026.
“Today’s activities represent our commitment to giving Nigerian athletes the very best as they compete on the global stage,” Dikko said.
Also Read: NSC Names Enekwechi Team Nigeria’s Male Captain For 2026 Commonwealth Games
“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.”
Discipline, Anti-Doping Top NSC’s Agenda
Director General of the Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, stressed that discipline and exemplary conduct would remain non-negotiable throughout the Games, warning that misconduct would attract strict sanctions, including expulsion from the Nigerian camp.
“Every athlete and official must understand that representing Nigeria is both an honour and a responsibility. Your conduct must be exemplary on and off the field of play,” the DG warned.
“We have zero tolerance for indiscipline, doping or any act capable of bringing the country into disrepute. Anyone found wanting will face appropriate sanctions, including possible expulsion from the team.”
The Commonwealth Games 2026 will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, from 23 July to 2 August, with Team Nigeria set to compete in 10 sports. A contingent of 74 athletes will represent the country as they aim to bring glory to the nation.
By Richard Jideaka, Abuja
