The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has said Nigeria has a strong chance of winning at least 20 gold medals at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, a performance he believes could push the country into the top five finishers at the event.
Olopade made this known on Friday in Abuja after holding a series of strategic talks with several sports federations, including American Flag Football, Karate, and Mixed Martial Arts bodies.
He referred to a performance forecast by the Chief Executive Officer of the Elite Athletes Development and Podium Board, Yusuf Ali, which projects Team Nigeria to win about 16 gold and 20 silver medals.
However, Olopade said the target should be higher than that.
“Even though the technical projection suggests around 16 gold medals, I have challenged all the federations to push beyond that,” he said.
“I strongly believe Nigeria can reach at least 20 gold medals. If we achieve that, we will be among the top five countries at the Commonwealth Games.”
The NSC boss also explained that preparations for the Games have been ongoing for months, with special attention placed on athlete welfare and proper planning.
According to him, discussions have focused on improving support systems such as travel arrangements, welfare packages, and general comfort for athletes to ensure they perform at their best.
Olopade added that some athletes will be flown in business class, while competition and training kits for Team Nigeria have already been fully prepared.
He revealed that each athlete will receive a well-packed kit bag containing nearly 20 different apparel items, stressing that everything is ready for distribution ahead of the Games.
He also confirmed that final arrangements are being completed before camping begins on June 9 in Abuja.
Olopade maintained that Nigerian athletes are now receiving stronger support than ever before.
“Our athletes have never had it this good in terms of preparation, welfare, and support systems in camp,” he said.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games are scheduled to take place from July 22 to August 2, with more than 70 countries and territories expected to compete in over 20 sporting events.