Private Sector Backing Grows as NAqF Board Member Announces Commonwealth Games Medal Bonuses

Posted : 09 July 2026

The South-East Representative on the Board of the Nigeria Aquatics Federation (NAqF), Joseph Odobeatu, popularly known as Ojez, has pledged cash rewards of up to 2,000 US dollars for Nigerian swimmers who win medals at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.

The Games are scheduled to hold from July 23 to Aug. 2, with Nigerian swimmers expected to compete against some of the best athletes across the Commonwealth.

Under the incentive package announced by Ojez, each gold medal winner will receive 2,000 US dollars, silver medallists will earn 1,000 US dollars, while bronze medallists will be rewarded with 500 US dollars.

According to him, the initiative is designed to boost the morale of the athletes and complement government efforts towards achieving a successful outing at the Games.

"Our swimmers deserve every encouragement as they prepare to represent Nigeria at the Commonwealth Games.

"This reward is my way of motivating them to aim for the podium and make the nation proud," he said.

Ojez said rewarding excellence would encourage athletes to give their best while inspiring others to pursue success in the sport.

"I am offering 2,000 US dollars for every gold medal, 1,000 US dollars for every silver medal, and 500 US dollars for every bronze medal won by our swimmers. Excellence deserves to be rewarded," he said.

The businessman and philanthropist stressed that athlete motivation should not be left to the government alone, urging greater private sector participation in sports development.

"This is not just about money; it is about inspiring our athletes to believe that their hard work and sacrifices are appreciated.

"Government cannot do it alone. The private sector must continue to partner with the Nigeria Aquatics Federation and other sports bodies to create opportunities for our athletes to succeed," he added.

Ojez has maintained a strong record of supporting Nigerian aquatics through financial incentives.

Following the 17th African Swimming Championships in Oran, Algeria, he rewarded Nigeria's medal-winning swimmers, Collins Ebingha and India Brown, with cash gifts in recognition of their achievements.

A long-time supporter of Nigerian sports, Ojez has also contributed to the development of table tennis, supporting players from the grassroots to the elite level.

He reaffirmed his commitment to collaborating with the government and other stakeholders to improve sports infrastructure, strengthen athlete development programmes, and provide greater support for Nigerian athletes competing internationally.

The incentive scheme highlights the growing role of private sector support in Nigerian sports as athletes continue their preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Private Sector Backing Grows as NAqF Board Member Announces Commonwealth Games Medal Bonuses

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