By Kosisochukwu Simon
The president of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) has described the previous performances of Team Nigeria’s athletes at the Commonwealth Games as a pride to the nation.
“They have demonstrated their prowess at international events and have brought pride to the country. Since our inaugural participation in the Commonwealth Games in 1950, our national profile at this quadrennial event has shown remarkable progress.
“From securing a solitary silver medal at the Auckland 1950 Games, to an impressive tally of 12 Gold, 9 silver and 14 bronze medals at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, Nigerian athletes have consistently done well.” Gumel, who is also the president of Commonwealth Games Nigeria, stated.
In a bid to help Team Nigeria athletes improve on their last record set at the last Commonwealth Games Gumel also solicited the continued support of the Federal Government, especially as regards the timely release of funds to facilitate the team’s preparation for the Games.
Barely two weeks ago, President Bola Tinubu had promised to unite the country through various sporting activities while receiving the King’s Baton ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games scheduled to hold between July 23 and Aug. 2, 2026, in Glasgow Scotland.
The President, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume said the present administration was committed to uniting Nigeria through sports.
“We reiterate our dedication to promoting peace through sports.The arrival of the King’s Baton in Nigeria on June 27 is a testament of our commitment to the Commonwealth family and the ideals it represents.
“The arrival of the King’s Baton is more than just a relay. It is an opportunity to showcase our rich cultural heritage, vibrant diversity, and boundless potential.
“It allows us to reiterate our dedication to peace, understanding our sustainable development through the unifying power of sports.
“We recognise the symbolism of this baton, much like the Olympic Torch, ignites a collective passion and shared anticipation and renewed determination as we look forward to the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
“Our athletes have consistently demonstrated their prowess on the global stage and brought glory and honour to our country. Nigeria has continued to shine since our first participation in 1950, and we are determined to build on these successes,” he said.
It was a record-smashing outing for Team Nigeria at the 2022 Commonwealth Games (CWG) in Birmingham.
Medals were raked in at an exceptional rush while Nigerian athletes broke several records in the competition. Team Nigeria won 12 gold medals in the competition — the country’s highest haul in the history of the CWG