2026 Commonwealth Games: Nigerian Athletes to Begin Four-Week Intensive Training Ahead of Glasgow Games

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has confirmed that Nigerian athletes preparing for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, will participate in an intensive four-week residential training programme aimed at ensuring peak performance during the Games.
The Director General of the NSC, Hon.

Bukola Olopade, disclosed that the Commission has secured a training base in Aberdeen, Scotland. According to him, the decision is intended to improve coordination, minimise travel fatigue, and eliminate last-minute logistical challenges.
Hon. Olopade explained that locating the training camp within the host country well ahead of the Games reflects lessons learned from past international sporting events.
“We have deliberately positioned our preparation camp close to the competition environment to enable athletes to settle early and train under similar conditions. Experience has shown that last-minute movements across countries can be disruptive. This time, we are prioritising stability, structure and proper coordination,” he stated.
In a statement issued by the Director of Information and Public Relations of the NSC, Dr. (Mrs.) Kehinde Ajayi, it was further revealed that Team Nigeria will arrive at the Aberdeen camp four weeks before the opening ceremony. This period, she noted, will allow ample time for acclimatisation, technical fine-tuning and team bonding.
The Director General added that his recent visit to Scotland formed part of the Commission’s early-stage planning strategy, which focuses on securing athlete-friendly accommodation and ensuring a smooth transition into competition mode.
“Our objective is to eliminate avoidable stress for both athletes and technical officials. By planning ahead and working within established performance frameworks, we are putting measures in place to support peak performance when it matters most,” he said.
The NSC also confirmed that preparations for the Games are being guided by recommendations from the Elite Podium Board, reinforcing the Commission’s commitment to professionalism, evidence-based planning and adherence to international best practices.
The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games are scheduled to take place from July 23 to August 2 and will feature 10 sporting events.