With just 16 days before the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, former Commonwealth champion Yusuf Alli has urged Team Nigeria athletes to embrace discipline, professionalism, and excellence as they prepare for the competition.
A statement from the Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC) was released on Monday. Mr Alli, who leads the Elite Athletes Development and Podium Board, made these remarks during Team Nigeria’s first official meeting in Aberdeen, Scotland. He reminded the athletes that success at the highest level needs more than just talent.
He encouraged the team to follow camp rules, including meal times, training schedules, and transport arrangements. He emphasized the importance of getting enough rest to help recovery and boost performance.
“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,” Mr Alli said.
He also reminded the athletes about the responsibility of representing Nigeria on the international stage. “When you wear the colours of Nigeria, you carry more than just 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.”
Mr Alli speaks from experience. He won medals for Nigeria at the 1986 Commonwealth Games and took home the men’s long jump gold medal at the 1990 Commonwealth Games in Auckland, New Zealand. This was one of the country’s most memorable achievements at the Games.
Also speaking to the athletes was Akuchukwu Aghazu, the Second Vice President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN). He urged the team to remain focused, united, and disciplined throughout the competition.
“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.”
Team Nigeria is set to compete in 10 sports at the Games, which will take place in Glasgow, Scotland, from 23 July to 2 August.
The NSC officials believe that the team’s discipline, preparation, and unity will lead to podium finishes and help strengthen Nigeria’s rich legacy at the Commonwealth Games.
Drop your comment
No comments yet — be the first to drop the gist 👇