By Aderonke Ojo
Nigeria’s women’s wheelchair basketball team has secured a historic qualification for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, marking a major milestone for the sport in the country.
The Nigerian side sealed their place with a hard-fought 8–3 victory over South Africa in a thrilling final at the Commonwealth Games qualifiers held in Angola on Thursday.
Led by captain Ijigbamigbe Gbemisola Olubisi, the team staged a remarkable comeback to defeat the tournament favourites and clinch the sole qualification ticket.
The victory was particularly significant, as Nigeria had earlier lost 7–3 to South Africa during the group stage but showed resilience and determination when it mattered most.
Reacting to the achievement, the President of the Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation, Seyi Johnson, described the qualification as a monumental milestone that reflects the steady growth of wheelchair basketball in Nigeria.
“As President, I feel very fulfilled that we have been able to make history in Nigeria wheelchair basketball.
“ Everyone associated with the sport, both past and present, has every reason to share in this achievement, as it is the result of many years of dedication and hard work,” he said.
He also commended the leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC) for its support, singling out its Chairman, Shehu Dikko, and Director General, Bukola Olopade.
“I must specially thank the leadership of the National Sports Commission under Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade for the direction they have brought into Nigerian sports, which is enabling all sports to thrive, regardless of their size,” Johnson added.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s men’s wheelchair basketball team narrowly missed out on qualification after losing 13–8 to South Africa in the final.
With this result, Nigeria’s women’s team and South Africa’s men’s team will represent Africa in the wheelchair basketball events at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
