Olopade Tips Team Nigeria for Athletics Gold Rush as Medal Hopes Soar

Posted : 27 July 2026

Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC) and Team Nigeria's Chef de Mission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, has expressed confidence that the country's athletes remain on course to surpass expectations at the ongoing 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Olopade's optimism follows Ruth Asuquo Nyong's silver-medal performance in the women's 48kg weightlifting event, where she recorded a total lift of 168kg after posting 75kg in the snatch and 93kg in the clean and jerk.

According to the NSC boss, Nyong's silver medal exceeded the Elite Board's pre-Games projections, which had forecast a bronze-medal finish for the weightlifter.

"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 a downward one," Olopade said.

Looking ahead, he identified athletics as Nigeria's strongest medal prospect, expressing optimism that the track and field team could deliver a significant haul for the country.

"I was with the athletics team last night, and we're hoping that seven to eight gold medals can come from there," he said.

Olopade also praised the dedication of Team Nigeria's athletes, coaches, and officials, noting that the country's sports sector is beginning to regain a clear identity through ongoing reforms.

"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 added.

The NSC Director-General reiterated the Commission's commitment to athlete welfare under the leadership of Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko, stressing that recognising and rewarding athletes remains a key priority.

"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," he said.

With athletics expected to provide Nigeria's biggest medal opportunities, Team Nigeria will be aiming to build on its early success and exceed its projected performance as the Commonwealth Games continue.

Olopade Tips Team Nigeria for Athletics Gold Rush as Medal Hopes Soar

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