The National Sports Commission (NSC) has expressed confidence that Team Nigeria remains on course to achieve its medal targets at the 2026 Commonwealth Games following another podium finish in Glasgow on Sunday.
Nigeria added to its medal tally after Ruth Asuquo Nyong claimed silver in the women’s 48kg weightlifting event with a total lift of 168kg, made up of 75kg in the snatch and 93kg in the clean and jerk.
Reacting to the performance, the Director General of the NSC and Team Nigeria’s Chef de Mission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, said the latest result reinforces the Commission’s confidence in meeting its medal projections, saying “If the projections of the Elite Board are anything to go by, we’re still on track. Even for Ruth, the expectation was a bronze medal and she won a silver. It’s an upward progression rather than downward”.
He also expressed optimism that the athletics team would make a significant contribution to Nigeria’s medal haul, saying”I was with the athletics team last night and we’re hoping that seven to eight gold medals can come from there”.
Olopade praised the athletes, coaches and officials for their dedication and resilience, noting that Nigerian sports is regaining a clear identity under the current administration.
“I am very proud of the young men and women and officials I have had the opportunity to work with over the past one and a half years. Many people are saying they can see an identity in our sports again after a long time, and that on its own is a gold medal,” he said.
He reiterated that athlete welfare remains a key priority of the Commission under the leadership of Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko.
“Athletes work hard every day and deserve to feel acknowledged and respected. Yes, it’s about patriotism, but it’s also about reward and looking after one another. We trust they will continue to make Nigeria proud,” Olopade said.
