Commonwealth Games: Tinubu urges Team Nigeria to win clean, break record

President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigeria's contingent to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, to compete with integrity and aim to break the country's previous medal record. During a farewell ceremony in Abuja, Tinubu, represented by his Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, reminded the athletes of Nigeria's impressive 35-medal haul at the 2022 Games in Birmingham.

“

Whenever our athletes wear the green and white, they carry the hopes, pride, prayers and expectations of over 200 million Nigerians.

Tinubu stressed that while winning is important, achieving success through fair play and discipline is paramount. "Winning is important, but winning clean is more important. Medals are valuable, but integrity is priceless," he stated. He urged the athletes to rely on their talent, training, and the "Nigerian fighting spirit" rather than resorting to doping, emphasizing that sporting success should never compromise honesty.

“

Winning is important, but winning clean is more important. Medals are valuable, but integrity is priceless.

The President described the athletes as national ambassadors, carrying the hopes and pride of over 200 million Nigerians. He encouraged them to showcase not only their athletic abilities but also the resilience, determination, and values that define the nation on the global stage. "You are not just exporting your talent; you are exporting the values of this great country," he added.

“

Go to Glasgow and compete with courage, but also compete clean. Let your performance be driven by talent, training, discipline and the Nigerian fighting spirit.

Tinubu also commended the collective efforts of athletes, coaches, medical personnel, technical teams, and administrators who facilitated Nigeria's participation. He praised the timely and organized preparations, noting that the administration had restructured sports funding to ensure athletes were well-prepared for optimal performance.

“

You are not only going to Glasgow as competitors; you are going as ambassadors of our country, symbols of our resilience and representatives of the Nigerian spirit.