By Aderonke Ojo
Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has joined the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Malam Shehu Dikko, and the Commission’s Director-General, Bukola Olopade, in urging Nigerians to continue supporting Team Nigeria as the country’s athletes pursue more success at the ongoing Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
The appeal followed another strong performance by Team Nigeria, with Chukwuebuka Enekwechi claiming a medal in the men’s shot put event to boost the nation’s medal tally and strengthen hopes of additional podium finishes as the Games enter the final stages.
The sports administrators commended the athletes for their dedication, resilience and patriotism, describing their performances as a reflection of months of hard work, discipline and sacrifice. They said the team deserves the unwavering support of Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora, noting that such encouragement could further motivate the athletes to achieve greater success.
Expressing confidence in Team Nigeria’s ability to win more medals across various events, Shaibu, Dikko and Olopade urged the athletes to remain focused, disciplined and determined throughout the competition. They assured the team that the nation remains proud of their efforts despite the challenges they may face.
The officials noted that every medal won by Team Nigeria represents more than sporting achievement, describing it as a symbol of national pride capable of uniting Nigerians across ethnic, religious and political lines.
They also highlighted the inspirational impact of athletes such as Enekwechi, whose performances continue to encourage young Nigerians aspiring to represent the country on the international stage.
With the Commonwealth Games still underway in Glasgow, expectations remain high that Team Nigeria will build on its recent successes. Sports stakeholders expressed optimism that, with sustained support from Nigerians around the world, the country’s athletes will deliver more memorable performances and add to the nation’s medal haul before the Games conclude.
