President of the Nigeria Olympians Association (NOA), Olumide Oyedeji, has challenged Nigerian athletes to justify increasing government investments in sports by delivering podium performances at the Commonwealth Games and other major international competitions.
The call follows the National Sports Commission’s (NSC) recent release of over N200 million in training grants to 26 elite athletes under its newly established Elite and Podium Board.
Oyedeji, a former NBA star and FIBA ambassador, praised the Federal Government and the NSC for taking decisive steps to reposition Nigerian sports, particularly in supporting home-based athletes currently training in Asaba, Delta State.
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“As athletes, you reach for the top, show why you need to be supported, and then give back with good results,” Oyedeji said. He urged competitors, coaches, and technical crews to intensify their preparation with “the right shift and energy.”
The grants cover key medal prospects across athletics, wrestling, weightlifting, taekwondo, powerlifting, and para-sports. Both home-based and foreign-based athletes are beneficiaries, with the funding aimed at meeting critical training and competition needs to sharpen Nigeria’s competitive edge.
For Oyedeji, recently elected Secretary General of the World Olympians Association, the release of funds represents more than financial backing—it signals renewed confidence in Nigerian athletes. He commended the Federal Government for “giving sports a lift” and emphasized that consistent funding is vital for Nigeria to compete effectively on the global stage.
“This is the kind of encouragement our athletes need. When the government shows belief, athletes must respond with commitment and results,” he added.
The intervention follows the inauguration of the Elite and Podium Board, chaired by Yusuf Ali, designed to provide a scientific, structured, and performance-driven support system for top-tier athletes. Beneficiaries were selected through a rigorous evaluation process to ensure that only proven performers were included.
NSC Director-General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, described the disbursement as evidence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strong belief in sports. “Mr. President believes strongly in the power of sports and the potential of the Nigerian athlete. That belief is already translating into increased funding and improved international results,” he said.
Olopade explained that the grants form part of a broader strategy to restore confidence and stability in Nigerian sports administration under NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko. “This is our way of reassuring athletes that their welfare remains our utmost priority. When we take care of our athletes, they will take care of the country by winning medals,” he added.
Notably, this marks the second time in six months that the NSC has released grants to elite athletes, underscoring the administration’s commitment to matching promises with action.
With funding secured and preparations intensifying, Nigerian sports stakeholders are sending a clear message: the country is not merely preparing to participate—it is positioning to compete for honours. The responsibility now rests with the athletes to rise to the occasion and make the nation proud.
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