By Abuja, Nigeria
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has released ₦200 million in training grants to 26 Nigerian athletes as part of preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
Confirming the development, the Director-General of (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, stated that increased budgetary support from the Federal Government has already begun to reflect in improved performances at international competitions.
“The training grants disbursed to 26 athletes across different sports followed a careful and professional selection process. This is our way of reinforcing that athlete welfare remains our top priority,” Olopade said.
He added that the initiative would be crucial to Nigeria’s preparation for the 2026 Commonwealth Games and other major events, including the Olympic Games.
“When we take care of our athletes, they will take care of the country by winning medals,” Olopade said, adding that the NSC, under the chairmanship of Mallam Shehu Dikko, would continue to explore ways to enhance athlete welfare,” he maintained.
He revealed that the funding was disbursed through the Commission’s “Elite and Podium Board” and is aimed at supporting the training and high-performance preparation of selected athletes across several sports. The beneficiaries cut across athletics, wrestling, weightlifting, taekwondo, powerlifting and para-sports, including para athletics, para table tennis and para badminton.
According to the NSC, the selection process was carried out through a rigorous evaluation led by the Yusuf Ali-chaired board, focusing on athletes with strong medal prospects ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games and other global events.
He reiterated that the move aligns with the NSC’s goal of prioritising athlete welfare while strengthening Nigeria’s competitiveness at major international competitions.
