Chairman of the Elite Athletes Development and Podium Board, Yusuf Alli, has challenged Team Nigeria athletes to target podium finishes at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, urging them to embrace discipline, professionalism and excellence as preparations intensify.
Alli spoke during the team’s first official meeting in Aberdeen, Scotland, with 16 days remaining before the start of the Games in Glasgow.
The former Commonwealth champion said success at the Games would depend on discipline on and off the field, urging the athletes to observe camp rules, keep to meal and training schedules, respect transportation arrangements and prioritise adequate rest.
Alli said: “Success at this level is built on discipline. Every minute matters. Be punctual for meals, respect the bus schedule, arrive early for training and give your body the rest it needs to recover.
“These are not ordinary routines; they are the habits of champions. If we all do the little things right, the medals will take care of themselves.”
He also reminded the athletes of the responsibility that comes with representing Nigeria on the international stage.
He said: “When you wear the colours of Nigeria, you represent more than yourselves, you carry the hopes and pride of millions of Nigerians.
“Compete with courage, support one another and let your conduct, both on and off the field, reflect the excellence our country is known for.
“We want Team Nigeria to be remembered not only for winning medals but also for professionalism and character.”
Alli knows what it takes to succeed at the Commonwealth Games, having won medals for Nigeria at the 1986 edition before claiming the men’s long jump gold medal at the 1990 Games in Auckland, New Zealand.
Also addressing the athletes, the 2nd Vice President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, Akuchukwu Aghazu, urged Team Nigeria to remain focused, disciplined and united throughout the competition.
Aghazu said: “Discipline and focus must guide everything you do from now until the end of the Games.
“Stay committed to your goals, avoid distractions and remember that you are stronger together than as individuals.
“Look out for one another, protect each other and uphold the values of Team Nigeria wherever you go. Unity will be one of our greatest strengths in Glasgow.”
Officials expressed optimism that the team’s discipline, commitment and unity would translate into podium finishes and further strengthen Nigeria’s sporting legacy at the Commonwealth Games.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2.