Joel Ajayi

The President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, NOC, Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel, has congratulated Nigerians on the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary, calling for renewed patriotism, unity and collective commitment to building a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.

In his Independence Day message, Engr. Gumel said Nigeria’s 66-year journey has been defined by resilience, diversity and the determination of its people to overcome challenges and excel.

He noted that sport remains a powerful instrument for national unity, youth development and international image-building, urging Nigerians to continue supporting the country’s athletes and the development of sports.

“As Nigeria celebrates 66 years of independence, I extend my warmest felicitations to all Nigerians at home and abroad. This is a moment to reflect on our journey, celebrate our achievements and renew our commitment to the Nigeria of our dreams.”

The NOC President said the outstanding performance of Team Nigeria at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games provides fresh reasons for optimism about the future of Nigerian sports.

Team Nigeria finished seventh overall and as Africa’s highest-ranked nation, winning 24 medals — 10 gold, seven silver and seven bronze.

Gumel commended the Tinubu-led administration for its unprecedented commitment to sports development, highlighting the substantial financial investment channelled through the National Sports Commission to strengthen Nigeria’s sporting sector.

Gumel also commended athletes, coaches, federations, technical officials, government and other stakeholders for their contributions to the remarkable outing.

“The Glasgow performance demonstrated once again that Nigeria possesses the talent, determination and competitive spirit to stand among the best. Finishing as Africa’s number one nation is a remarkable achievement, and I commend every athlete and official who contributed to this success.”

He, however, stressed that the Commonwealth success should serve as a springboard for greater achievements, particularly at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

The NOC President expressed confidence that with early preparation, proper athlete development, adequate technical support and stronger collaboration among stakeholders, Nigeria can produce a favourable Olympic outing.

“Our eyes are now firmly set on Los Angeles 2028. We are optimistic about Nigeria’s prospects and believe that the right preparation, discipline and support can translate our enormous talent into outstanding Olympic performances.”»

“The journey to Los Angeles must begin now. We must identify our athletes early, prepare them properly and provide the technical and competitive environment required for them to compete with confidence at the highest level.”

The NOC has already welcomed Nigeria’s qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games in women’s volleyball, ending a 16-year absence from the Olympic tournament.

Gumel described the qualification as an encouraging signal and called for more Nigerian athletes and teams to secure Olympic berths.

“The qualification of our women’s volleyball team is a significant milestone. It shows what is possible when determination, preparation and opportunity come together. We want to see more Nigerian athletes earn their places in Los Angeles, and we are committed to supporting that ambition.”

Looking beyond the Olympics, the NOC President highlighted Nigeria’s hosting of the 2027 African School Games in Abuja as another important milestone for the country’s sports development.

Preparations for the Games, scheduled for August 2–11, 2027, are already underway, with Gumel recently assuring that Nigeria’s preparations are on course.

“The African School Games will be an important platform for discovering the next generation of African sporting stars. Nigeria will use this opportunity not only to showcase its organisational capacity but also to identify and nurture young talents who can become future Commonwealth and Olympic champions.”

Gumel said the NOC would continue to work closely with the National Sports Commission, National Federations, government and other stakeholders to strengthen Nigeria’s sporting structures and create sustainable pathways for young athletes.

He urged corporate organisations and private-sector partners to increase their investment in sports, noting that sustainable sports development requires a strong partnership between government and the private sector.

“The future of Nigerian sports belongs to all of us. Government cannot do it alone. We need corporate Nigeria, sponsors, federations, coaches, parents and the entire sporting community to come together and invest in our athletes and young people.”

The NOC President also called on Nigerians to use the Independence Anniversary as an opportunity to promote peace, unity and national pride.

“Nigeria is greater than our differences. Our diversity is a strength, and sport has repeatedly shown us that when Nigerians come together under one flag, we can achieve extraordinary things.”

Gumel expressed optimism that the coming years would usher in greater achievements for Nigeria on the international sporting stage.

“As we celebrate our 66th Independence Anniversary, let us look to the future with hope and confidence. From Glasgow to Los Angeles and to the major competitions ahead, the Nigeria Olympic Committee remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that our athletes have every opportunity to make the nation proud.”

“I congratulate all Nigerians once again and wish our great nation continued peace, unity, progress and sporting excellence. Happy Independence Day, Nigeria.”

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