Tinubu Charges Team Nigeria as PUMA Unveiled Ahead of 2026 Commonwealth Games

Posted : 03 July 2026

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Team Nigeria to compete with integrity, discipline and excellence as the country prepares for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. The charge came during a ceremonial send-off held on Thursday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where the President was represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila.

Speaking on behalf of the President, Gbajabiamila reminded the athletes that they would represent the hopes of millions of Nigerians. He stressed that while medals remain important, the team's conduct throughout the Games would be equally significant.

He encouraged the athletes to compete fairly, display the highest standards of sportsmanship and avoid all forms of misconduct, including doping. He added that wearing the green and white jersey comes with the responsibility of protecting Nigeria's image on the international stage.

Following the presidential ceremony, the National Sports Commission (NSC) officially unveiled global sportswear manufacturer PUMA as Team Nigeria's kit partner for the Games. The event took place at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja and was attended by athletes, coaches, sports administrators and other stakeholders.

NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko described the partnership as another step in the Commission's drive to improve elite sports development and provide Nigerian athletes with better support before major international competitions. He said the Commission had worked to ensure the team is well prepared and equipped to compete successfully in Glasgow.

Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, also reaffirmed the Commission's strict stance on discipline and anti-doping compliance. He warned that any athlete or official found guilty of misconduct or doping violations could face severe sanctions, including expulsion from the Nigerian delegation.

Olopade said representing Nigeria is both an honour and a responsibility, adding that every member of the contingent must maintain exemplary behaviour both during competition and away from the field of play.

The ceremony attracted several prominent figures from Nigeria's sporting community. Among those in attendance were Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Wale Edun, Nigeria Olympic Committee Vice President Solomon Ogba, National Institute for Sports Director General Philip Shaibu, former D'Tigers captain Olumide Oyedeji, athletics icon Mary Onyali and Nigeria Anti-Doping Centre Executive Secretary Mainasara Ilo.

The 2026 Commonwealth Games will be held in Glasgow from July 23 to August 2. Team Nigeria will compete in 10 sports with a delegation of 74 athletes as the country targets another strong performance and aims to improve its medal tally from previous editions.

Tinubu Charges Team Nigeria as PUMA Unveiled Ahead of 2026 Commonwealth Games

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