Yusuf Alli charges Team Nigeria to pursue podium success at Commonwealth Games

By Amaechi Agbo

With just 16 days to the start of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, former Commonwealth champion and Chairman of the Elite Athletes Development and Podium Board, Yusuf Alli, has challenged Team Nigeria athletes to embrace discipline, professionalism and excellence as they intensify preparations for the Games.
Speaking during the team’s first official meeting in Aberdeen, Scotland, Alli reminded the athletes that winning medals requires much more than talent, stressing that discipline in every aspect of camp life would play a crucial role in determining success.
The former Commonwealth Games champion urged the athletes to adhere strictly to camp rules, including meal times, training schedules and transportation arrangements, while also prioritising adequate rest to enhance recovery and maximise 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,” Alli said.
He further reminded the athletes of the honour and responsibility that comes with representing Nigeria on the international stage.
“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 on the Commonwealth stage. He won laurels for Nigeria at the 1986 Commonwealth Games before claiming the men’s long jump gold medal at the 1990 Commonwealth Games in Auckland, New Zealand, a feat that remains one of Nigeria’s memorable achievements in the competition.
Also addressing the athletes, the 2nd Vice President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, Akuchukwu Aghazu, urged members of Team Nigeria to remain focused, disciplined and united throughout the Games.
“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 and stakeholders are optimistic that the athletes’ commitment, discipline and teamwork will translate into podium finishes and further enhance Nigeria’s rich sporting legacy at the Commonwealth Games.

The 2026 Commonwealth Games will hold from July 23rd to August 2nd in Glasgow, Scotland.