Twenty-six Nigerian elite athletes have received a significant financial lifeline ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, as the National Sports Commission (NSC) confirmed the disbursement of over ₦200 million in training grants to support their preparations.
The grants, approved and released through the NSC Elite and Podium Board, are aimed at ensuring Nigeria’s top-performing athletes are adequately funded and optimally prepared for major international competitions, with the Commonwealth Games and the Olympic Games firmly in focus.
The disbursement follows the establishment of the Elite and Podium Board, a strategic body created to implement a scientific and institutionalized support system designed to sustain peak performances by Nigerian athletes at major global competitions.
Athletes were selected by the Yusuf Ali-led Elite and Podium Board, which assessed performances, medal prospects, and preparedness ahead of Glasgow 2026.
Why ₦200 MILLION Training Grants and Who Benefited
The beneficiaries include both foreign-based and home-based athletes, selected after what the NSC described as a rigorous and professional evaluation process.
The athletes cut across several sports, including:
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Athletics
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Wrestling
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Weightlifting
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Taekwondo
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Powerlifting
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Para athletics
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Para table tennis
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Para badminton
According to the Commission, the grants will cater for training and preparation expenses, reinforcing its commitment to athlete welfare and high-performance development.
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“President Tinubu’s Sports Vision Already Paying Off” – Olopade
Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, said the initiative aligns with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to restore confidence and hope in Nigerian sports by prioritising athlete welfare.
“Mr President has graciously increased our budget and given sports special financial considerations because he believes strongly in the power of sports and the potential of the Nigerian athlete.”
“This commitment is already reflecting in improved performances and successes at international competitions,” Olopade said.
Olopade stated that the grants were not arbitrary but followed a structured process.
“The training grants disbursed to 26 athletes across different sports followed a careful and professional selection process by the Yusuf Ali-led Elite and Podium Board.”
“This is our way of reassuring our athletes that their welfare remains our utmost priority.”
He added that the support would significantly enhance Nigeria’s medal prospects at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Scotland, as well as other elite global events.
Reiterating the NSC’s long-term vision, Olopade emphasised the direct link between athlete welfare and international success.
“I often say that when we take care of our athletes, they will take care of the country by winning medals.”
“Under the chairmanship of Mallam Shehu Dikko, the NSC will continue to explore ways to enhance athlete welfare so that they can consistently perform at their best while representing the nation,” he concluded.
Second Major Grant Disbursement in Six Months
Notably, this marks the second time in six months that the NSC has disbursed training grants to Nigeria’s top elite athletes, signaling a renewed and sustained commitment to funding high-performance sports.
As the countdown to Glasgow 2026 continues, Nigeria is backing its best athletes to deliver on the global stage.
