NSC eyes 22 gold medals at Commonwealth Games

Nigeria is targeting a record-breaking medal haul at the forthcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, with the National Sports Commission expressing confidence in the country’s readiness for the global competition, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Director General of the commission, Bukola Olopade, said Team Nigeria could surpass internal projections to win as many as 22 gold medals, signalling an ambitious outlook as preparations intensify.

Speaking in Lagos on the sidelines of the 2026 Nigeria National League Super 4 draw, Olopade outlined the federation’s medal expectations, noting that while the Elite Athletes Podium Finish initiative had set a target of 18 gold medals, there was growing belief within the camp that the figure could be exceeded.

“Although the Elite Athletes Podium Finish team is looking at 18 gold medals, I think we will push beyond that to 22,” Olopade said as quoted by Sports Groove.

Olopade attributed the optimism to structural changes within the sports system, explaining that reforms under the leadership of NSC chairman Shehu Dikko, alongside backing from President Bola Tinubu, had strengthened preparations across multiple levels.

“We have broken many barriers,” he added.

Nigeria’s confidence is rooted in its performance at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, where the country recorded its most successful outing with a total of 35 medals, comprising 12 gold, nine silver and 14 bronze, to finish seventh overall.

The achievement was particularly notable for the dominance of female athletes, who accounted for all 12 gold medals, highlighting a growing strength in women’s sports.

With the Glasgow Games approaching, expectations within the Nigerian camp continue to rise, as officials maintain that improved preparation, administrative support and athlete development could position the country to surpass its previous record and establish a new benchmark in Commonwealth Games history.