Tinubu Charges Team Nigeria to Compete with Integrity at Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

Tinubu Charges Team Nigeria to Compete with Integrity at Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerian athletes heading to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, to compete with courage, discipline, integrity and patriotism, while making the nation proud through fair competition.

The President gave the charge on Thursday during the Presidential Send-off Ceremony at the State House, Abuja. He was represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila.

Describing the athletes as worthy ambassadors of Nigeria’s resilience, talent and determination, President Tinubu expressed confidence that Team Nigeria would deliver impressive performances on the global stage.

He encouraged the athletes to remain united, disciplined and focused throughout the competition.

“You have trained and sacrificed for this moment. Go to Glasgow with confidence, discipline and unity. Represent Nigeria with patriotism and show the world that our country can compete with the very best,” the President said.

He reminded the athletes that they were not only competing for medals but also representing the values and image of the nation.

President Tinubu stressed the importance of clean competition, urging the athletes to uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship and integrity.

“I want you to compete with courage, honour and integrity. Win clean. Let every medal reflect your commitment, hard work and the values of our nation. Winning is important, but winning clean is even more important because integrity is priceless,” he said.

The President noted that his administration remains committed to strengthening sports development and protecting the integrity of Nigerian sports.

He recalled signing the Nigerian Anti-Doping Act into law and the inauguration of the board of the Nigerian Anti-Doping Centre, describing both as major steps towards promoting clean sports, protecting athletes and ensuring Nigeria complies with international standards.

According to him, the Federal Government is determined to build a sports system where Nigerian athletes succeed through talent, discipline and excellence without suspicion.

President Tinubu also challenged Team Nigeria to surpass the country’s best-ever Commonwealth Games performance, assuring the athletes of the support and prayers of the Federal Government and Nigerians throughout the competition.

Earlier, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, thanked the President for his continued support for sports development, describing the administration’s commitment to the sector as unprecedented.

He commended President Tinubu for signing the Anti-Doping Act into law and supporting reforms aimed at protecting Nigerian athletes and preserving the country’s reputation in international sports.

The Director-General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, also praised the President’s leadership, saying it has attracted increased private sector investment into sports. He expressed confidence that a successful outing in Glasgow would encourage even greater sponsorship opportunities.

Speaking on behalf of the athletes, Team Nigeria captain, Oluwafemi Ayo Folashade, assured the President that the team would represent the country with honour and determination.

Nigeria will be represented by a 72-member contingent, competing in 10 sports at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, with officials expressing optimism that the team will return home with a record medal haul while upholding the values of discipline, fairness and excellence.

Tinubu Charges Team Nigeria to Compete with Integrity at Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games