Sports
Olopade Assures Top Support for Athletes, Says Nigeria Will Shine at Commonwealth Games
Joel Ajayi
Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s strong showing at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, pledging that Nigerian athletes will receive the best possible support from the current administration.
Speaking on Tuesday during the official reception and presentation of the King’s Baton Relay in Abuja, Olopade reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the ideals of the Commonwealth and its determination to ensure top-class preparation for its athletes.
“Nigerian athletes deserve the very best, and this government is determined to provide exactly that,” he said. “The baton relay is not new to us—it’s a cultural tradition that symbolizes unity and readiness, and we are more than prepared to uphold that spirit.”
Olopade declared that the era of last-minute preparations is over, citing a new approach that includes structured funding and long-term planning. He referenced the “Athlete Grant” initiative, designed to support athletes ahead of key competitions such as the Islamic Games, the Commonwealth Games, and the Olympics.
“We are building something massive—something that goes beyond the field of play. It’s about mental health, physical conditioning, and financial stability. We want to ensure our athletes are fully supported, not just during their careers but even in life after sports,” he emphasized.
He further disclosed that new empowerment packages will soon be unveiled, focusing on business development, financial support, and career transition opportunities for athletes.
“Our athletes need to know that the country is behind them. When they feel supported, they will give their best. Sports is not just entertainment—it fuels national pride, drives economic growth, and inspires future generations. Everyone in the ecosystem benefits, from athletes to coaches, administrators, and the media,” Olopade said.
He also hinted at Nigeria’s plan to bid for the 2030 Centenary Edition of the Commonwealth Games, subject to presidential approval.
“Nigeria is more than capable of hosting the Games. We have the infrastructure, the talent, and the organizational capacity. What we need now is the political green light. We are working on that, and we’re optimistic,” he said.
Concluding, Olopade urged Nigerians to believe in their country’s sporting potential:“We must stop underestimating ourselves. Nigeria is blessed with some of the most talented and intelligent people in the world. It’s time to start marketing our sports sector and showcasing our true value on the global stage. I have no doubt—Nigeria will shine in Glasgow.”
Sports
AACT 2026: 31 Days to Africa’s Big Sporting Gathering in Abuja
Joel Ajayi
The countdown to the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT) has officially entered the final month, with just 31 days to go before Africa’s leading women’s team golf championship tees off at the IBB International Golf & Country Club in Abuja.
In a statement signed by the AACT 2026Director of Communication Kayode Adeniyi on Friday in Abuja.
Under the theme “Africa Is Coming to Abuja,” the countdown campaign will spotlight the championship, the participating nations, the players, the host venue and the growing development of women’s golf across the continent.
The 2026 AACT, scheduled for November 2–7, will bring together women’s golfing talent from across Africa for six days of continental competition in Nigeria’s capital.
As preparations continue at the IBB International Golf & Country Club, attention is increasingly turning to Abuja, where the championship will provide a platform for African golfers to compete while also showcasing Nigeria’s hospitality and the country’s growing profile as a destination for major sporting events.
The countdown will feature daily stories, interviews, player and country profiles, tournament facts, behind-the-scenes updates and features on the host venue as the championship draws closer.
The campaign will also highlight the role of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), the Local Organising Committee and other stakeholders in preparing for the continental championship.
With just 31 days remaining, anticipation is building across the African golfing community as Abuja prepares to welcome the continent’s leading women golfers.
Africa is coming to Abuja.
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