Tinubu Charges Team Nigeria to Win Clean at Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games
By Nafiu Muhammad Lema
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Team Nigeria to compete with courage, discipline, integrity and patriotism at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, charging the athletes to make the nation proud through fair competition.
Speaking through his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, during the Presidential Send-off Ceremony at the State House, Abuja, the President described the athletes as worthy ambassadors of Nigeria’s resilience and talent.
Tinubu reminded the team of the importance of upholding the country’s values, stressing that while winning medals is important, winning with integrity is even more valuable.
“We want you to compete with courage, honour and integrity. Win clean. Let every medal you earn reflect your commitment, discipline and respect for the rules,” he said.
The President also highlighted his administration’s efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s anti-doping framework, noting that the Nigerian Anti-Doping Act and the inauguration of the Nigerian Anti-Doping Centre board demonstrate the government’s commitment to clean sports and international standards.
He expressed confidence that Team Nigeria has the talent and determination to surpass the country’s best-ever Commonwealth Games performance.
Earlier, National Sports Commission Chairman, Shehu Dikko, commended the President for prioritising sports development, while NSC Director-General, Bukola Olopade, said improved performances at the Games could attract unprecedented private-sector investment into Nigerian sports.
Team captain, Oluwafemi Ayo Folashade, assured Nigerians that the athletes would compete with honour and do everything possible to restore the country’s pride.
The 72-member Nigerian contingent will compete in 10 sporting events at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
