Commonwealth Games: We’ve Never Had It So Good – Team Nigeria

There is a quiet sense of confidence sweeping through Team Nigeria’s training camp in Aberdeen, Scotland, where athletes are putting the finishing touches to their preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

Just days before the opening ceremony in Glasgow on July 23, the atmosphere at the camp reflects a team focused solely on performance.

From intense training sessions to recovery periods, every aspect of the athletes’ daily routine appears carefully planned, with morale at one of its highest levels in recent years.

One of the strongest endorsements of the camp came from former national hammer throw champion and Team Nigeria’s head throwing coach, Gabriel Opuana, who described the National Sports Commission’s preparations as the best he has witnessed during decades of involvement with Nigerian athletics.

“For a long time in our history of preparations for international competitions, we have never had it so good,” Opuana said while speaking from the camp.

According to the 63-year-old coach, the difference is evident from the moment athletes arrive.

“The accommodation and training facilities are excellent, the food is good and, so far, we haven’t had any of those usual issues we normally have in camp,” he said.

A walk around the Aberdeen training base reveals athletes going through their routines with little distraction.

Coaches move from one training area to another, while medical and support staff remain on hand to ensure every athlete receives the necessary attention.

The relaxed but professional environment has created an atmosphere where the only priority is preparation for competition.

Opuana, who also serves as an advocate for athletes’ welfare, praised the National Sports Commission for placing the wellbeing of competitors at the centre of its planning.

“The athletes are happy, a reasonable daily allowance is being paid and kits have been supplied,” he noted.

He also singled out former Nigerian long jump great Yusuf Alli for his hands-on role in the camp.

“We are happy to have Yusuf Alli around. He is always available to provide everything that is needed. The NSC has done a good job we must commend them,” Opuana added.

Beyond the quality of accommodation and training facilities, the camp has also provided a familiar touch of home.

Athletes and officials have been enjoying Nigerian meals throughout their stay, a development that has further boosted comfort and morale ahead of the Games.

Perhaps even more encouraging for Team Nigeria is the clean bill of health within the camp.

Opuana disclosed that all athletes are injury-free as preparations enter the final phase, raising hopes of a strong outing in Glasgow.

While acknowledging the excellent conditions provided by the NSC, the experienced coach stressed that the responsibility now rests with the athletes to reward the investment with outstanding performances.

He also appealed to Nigerians to rally behind the team, saying nationwide support would further inspire the athletes as they chase medals on the international stage.

Team Nigeria heads into the 2026 Commonwealth Games with lofty ambitions after winning 35 medals, including 12 gold, at the last edition in Birmingham.

This time, the National Sports Commission has set an even bigger target, 20 gold medals as Nigeria looks to produce one of its most successful Commonwealth Games campaigns when competition runs from July 23 to August 4 in Glasgow.