Aberdeen hosts Team Nigeria’s final preparations for Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games
Team Nigeria is finalising preparations in Aberdeen, Scotland, for the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Games (CWG) in Glasgow. Athletes from various sports have been training at the Aberdeen Sports Village for the past three weeks, ahead of the Games which are scheduled to begin on July 23 and conclude on August 2. This training period is crucial as the team aims to build on its previous performances.
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced a comprehensive welfare and incentive package for Team Nigeria. This package includes financial rewards for medal winners, with gold medallists set to receive a total of $8,000. This amount comprises an instant cash reward of $3,000 and an additional performance bonus of $5,000, which will be paid directly into the athlete’s bank account. Silver medallists will be awarded a cumulative amount of $5,000, while bronze medallists will receive $3,000.
Enhanced Welfare and Training Support
The NSC’s new package reflects a commitment to athlete welfare and performance. Athletes and officials received ₦250,000 to cover flight costs to the national camp in Abuja. An additional ₦250,000 has also been approved for each athlete and official to facilitate return flights after the Games. Local camping allowances have been increased, with athletes now receiving ₦5,000 per day, and officials receiving ₦7,500 daily. These payments have reportedly been completed.
During the 21-day high-performance training camp in Aberdeen, athletes are receiving $150 per day, and coaches are entitled to $200 daily. Most of these payments have been completed, with a few outstanding cases related to banking issues currently being resolved through the respective national sports federations. When the CWG commences, athletes will receive $200 per day, and coaches will earn $250 daily.
In addition to financial incentives, Team Nigeria has been equipped with upgraded Puma competition kits. These kits include approximately 20 items, such as premium luggage and two durable travel boxes for each athlete. The provision of these kits aims to ensure the athletes are well-prepared and comfortable throughout the competition.
Athlete Morale and Community Connection
The decision to base the training camp in Aberdeen was influenced by the city’s sports facilities and its significant Nigerian community. Aku Aghazu, second vice-president of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, noted the team’s intention to build closer links with the community during their stay. Aberdeen is home to the largest community of Nigerians in Scotland, with approximately 5,600 residents, making up 2.5% of the city’s population.
Athletes have expressed positive feedback regarding the training facilities. Goodness Chiemerie Nwachukwu, the F42 discus world record holder, described the facilities as among the best. The presence of a strong Nigerian community also provides a sense of familiarity and support for the athletes as they focus on their training.
The arrival of Tobi Amusan, the world 100m hurdles record holder, at the training camp in Aberdeen has further boosted the team’s morale. Amusan is considered one of Nigeria’s brightest medal prospects and aims to add another international title to her collection. Her presence underscores the team’s ambition for a successful outing in Glasgow.
Looking Ahead to Glasgow 2026
Nigeria holds the ninth position in the all-time Commonwealths medal table with 271 medals. At the 2022 CWG in Birmingham, England, Nigeria secured 34 medals, comprising 11 gold, 9 silver, and 14 bronze. Aku Aghazu expressed confidence that Team Nigeria will surpass this performance in Glasgow.
The team will compete in various sports, including weightlifting, para powerlifting, track and field, 3×3 basketball, swimming, boxing, and judo. The athletes’ journeys to this stage have been significant, with some, like three-time world champion Paralympic powerlifter Folashade Oluwafemiayo, highlighting how sport has helped them embrace their challenges. The Federal Government is expected to host Team Nigeria’s medal winners after the Games in recognition of their achievements.
Read Also
Source: thecable.ng
