By Gabriel Ameh
ABUJA – President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), Engr. Musa Kida, has urged Team Nigeria to reward the Federal Government’s continued investment in sports by delivering impressive performances at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
The multi-sport event is scheduled to begin on July 23, 2026, with Nigerian athletes expected to compete against some of the world’s best across several sporting disciplines.
Kida said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated a strong commitment to sports development through increased support for athletes, sporting federations and programmes aimed at improving Nigeria’s competitiveness on the global stage.
He called on members of Team Nigeria to remain disciplined, focused and determined throughout the competition, stressing that they have a responsibility to make the nation proud.
According to the NBBF President and Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Nigeria will participate in 10 sporting events, including athletics, boxing, judo, swimming, weightlifting, basketball, wheelchair basketball and other events.
Kida expressed confidence in the ability of Nigerian athletes to compete for medals despite the stiff competition expected at the Games.
He encouraged the athletes to view the championship as an opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s resilience, determination and sporting excellence before a global audience.
“Every medal won will not only bring honour to the country but also inspire millions of young Nigerians who aspire to represent the nation in sports,” he said.
Kida also commended the leadership of the National Sports Commission for creating an enabling environment for athletes to prepare adequately for the Games.
He specifically praised the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, and the Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, for their commitment to the growth and development of sports in Nigeria.
As Team Nigeria prepares to compete in Glasgow, expectations remain high among Nigerians, with many hoping the contingent will return home with medals and performances that will strengthen the country’s reputation in international sports.
