Mary Onyali Urges Nigerian Athletes to Show Discipline and Resilience at Dakar 2026

Posted : 28 October 2026

Former Nigerian sprint star Mary Onyali has urged Team Nigeria's athletes to remain disciplined, dedicated and resilient as they prepare for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal. The competition will run from October 31 to November 12, with Nigeria scheduled to depart for Dakar on October 29.

Onyali, a former African 100m champion who represented Nigeria at five senior Olympic Games, said athletes must approach the competition with confidence and a clear focus on winning medals. She stressed that success at international events requires preparation, mental strength and the ability to perform under pressure.

Although the Youth Olympic Games did not exist during her early career, Onyali competed at the inaugural World Junior Championships in Athens, Greece, in 1986. That experience helped establish her reputation as one of Nigeria's leading sprint talents.

"There was nothing like the Youth Olympics in our days, but the World Athletics Junior Championships was so competitive," Onyali said. She explained that athletes need considerable preparation to succeed at the Youth Olympics, which brings together competitors from different sports.

Onyali described Nigeria's contingent as a small but capable team. She believes the size of the delegation should make it easier for the National Sports Commission (NSC) to manage the athletes and provide the necessary support.

She also reminded the young competitors that they would be representing the country on the international stage. Onyali encouraged them to compete without fear and approach their events with the same confidence they have shown in previous competitions.

The former sprinter expressed particular confidence in Rosemary Nwankwo's chances in the women's 100m. She believes the athlete has the experience required to challenge for gold, while urging her and the rest of the team to deliver when it matters most.

Other athletes expected to contribute to Nigeria's medal ambitions in athletics include Faith Ezechukwu, Chisom Rita Ezeh, Tejiri Praise Ugoh, Gift Gowon Oghenerunor and Bright Gift. Their performances will be important as the country seeks to build on its record at the youth competition.

Meanwhile, Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) president Habu Gumel has assured the contingent of the country's support ahead of the Games. He gave the assurance in Abuja while receiving the athletes before their departure.

Gumel expressed confidence in the athletes selected by the NSC. He also commended the commission's leadership for its efforts in preparing the team, particularly in training, welfare and the provision of competition kits.

The NOC president noted that Nigeria has participated in the Youth Olympic Games since the inaugural edition in Singapore in 2010. He believes the country can maintain its record of competitive performances in Dakar.

Nigeria's athletes will face strong international opposition across several sports. Onyali's message is clear: discipline, dedication and resilience will be essential if the young competitors are to turn their preparations into medals.

Mary Onyali Urges Nigerian Athletes to Show Discipline and Resilience at Dakar 2026

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