The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced an increase in performance bonuses for Team Nigeria athletes competing at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, in a move aimed at boosting morale and inspiring stronger performances during the multi-sport event.
The enhanced reward package was unveiled by the Commission’s Chairman, Shehu Dikko, following Team Nigeria’s encouraging start to the Games.
Under the revised incentive structure, athletes who win gold medals will now receive a total reward of $10,000, comprising an instant cash payment of $5,000 and an additional $5,000 to be paid directly into their bank accounts.
Silver medalists will earn $5,000, with $2,000 paid immediately and the remaining $3,000 transferred later, while bronze medalists will receive $3,000, including $1,000 as an instant reward and $2,000 paid into their accounts.
Dikko explained that the initial reward package proposed $8,000 for gold medal winners, consisting of $3,000 in instant cash and $5,000 to be credited later.
However, after meeting Team Nigeria athletes in Aberdeen ahead of the Games, he decided to increase the immediate cash reward to provide additional motivation for competitors aiming for gold medals.
According to the NSC chairman, the revised bonuses have already been implemented.
He disclosed that the first batch of Nigerian athletes who secured gold medals had each received the full $10,000 reward, while silver medalists had also been paid their instant bonuses in line with the new structure.
The Commission believes the improved incentives will encourage athletes to give their best and reinforce the Federal Government’s commitment to rewarding excellence in sports.
Officials said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to improve athlete welfare and create an environment where Nigerian sportsmen and women can compete confidently on the international stage.
Team Nigeria has made a promising start to the Glasgow Games, with several athletes advancing in their respective events while others have already secured podium finishes.
The NSC expressed optimism that the enhanced rewards would spur the team to win more medals before the competition concludes.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games continue in Glasgow, with Team Nigeria expected to compete across multiple disciplines as it seeks to improve on previous performances and strengthen the country’s reputation as one of Africa’s leading sporting nations.
