The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced a significantly improved reward package for Team Nigeria athletes and coaches competing at the ongoing Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, with gold medalists now set to receive a total of $10,000.
The revised incentive package was disclosed on Saturday in a statement issued by the NSC's Director of Information and Public Relations, Kehinde Ajayi.
According to NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko, the decision to increase the bonuses was reached after consultations with the Commission's Director General, Bukola Olopade, as part of efforts to further motivate Team Nigeria.
Under the new structure, gold medalists will receive a total of $10,000, comprising a $5,000 instant cash reward and another $5,000 paid directly into their accounts.
Silver medalists will earn $5,000 in total, with $2,000 paid immediately in cash and the remaining $3,000 transferred to their accounts, while bronze medalists will receive $3,000, including a $1,000 instant cash reward and $2,000 paid later.
Dikko explained that the previous package provided $8,000 for gold medalists, split into a $3,000 instant reward and $5,000 paid into athletes' accounts. However, following his visit to Team Nigeria's camp in Aberdeen, he approved an increase in the instant cash component for gold medal winners from $3,000 to $5,000.
He clarified that the three Nigerian athletes who won gold on Friday had already received the full $10,000 each, dismissing reports suggesting they were paid under the former $8,000 structure.
The NSC chairman also confirmed that athletes who secured two gold medals on Saturday, as well as the silver medalists, had received their instant cash rewards of $5,000 and $2,000, respectively.
Beyond athletes' bonuses, Dikko revealed that coaches will now receive a $5,000 incentive for every athlete they guide to a gold medal.
He added that athletes are receiving a daily allowance of $200, while coaches receive $250 per day throughout the Games.
The NSC boss further disclosed that additional discretionary rewards are available in exceptional cases, citing the on-the-spot cash incentive presented to Rilwan Idris on Friday, which he said inspired the athlete to improve from a potential bronze-medal position to eventually claim gold.
According to the Commission, the enhanced welfare and incentive package reflects its commitment to providing Team Nigeria with the motivation and support needed to achieve outstanding performances at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
The improved reward structure is expected to further boost morale within Team Nigeria as athletes and coaches continue their campaign, with the Commission reaffirming its commitment to rewarding excellence and encouraging medal-winning performances.
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