The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced a significant increase in performance bonuses for Team Nigeria athletes competing at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, as part of efforts to further motivate the country’s contingent during the multi-sport event, Sportblits.com reports.
The revised incentive package was confirmed by NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, who said the decision was reached after consultations with the Commission’s Director-General following Team Nigeria’s impressive start to the Games.
Under the new structure, athletes who win gold medals will now receive a total reward of $10,000, representing an increase from the previously announced package.
The announcement comes as Nigerian athletes continue to deliver outstanding performances across several events, particularly in para powerlifting, where the country has enjoyed considerable success.
Revised bonus structure unveiled
Speaking on the improved reward system, Dikko explained that the Commission had decided to increase both the overall bonuses and the instant cash rewards presented to medal winners.
The revised package is as follows:
- Gold Medal – $10,000
- $5,000 instant cash reward
- $5,000 paid directly into the athlete’s account
- Silver Medal – $5,000
- $2,000 instant cash reward
- $3,000 transferred to the athlete’s account
- Bronze Medal – $3,000
- $1,000 instant cash reward
- $2,000 paid into the athlete’s account
According to Dikko, the original package provided $8,000 for gold medallists, consisting of $3,000 in instant cash and $5,000 paid later.
However, after visiting Team Nigeria’s camp in Aberdeen, the Commission opted to improve the incentives.
“After meeting the team in Aberdeen, I decided to increase the instant cash reward to $5,000 as added motivation for all gold medal hopefuls,” Dikko explained.
Gold medallists already receive enhanced rewards
The NSC chairman disclosed that athletes who won gold medals during the opening days of the Commonwealth Games had already benefited from the revised package.
According to him, all three of Nigeria’s gold medallists on the opening day each received $10,000, despite earlier reports suggesting they would receive $8,000.
He also confirmed that gold medallists from the second day had received their $5,000 instant cash rewards, while silver medallists collected $2,000 immediately after their medal-winning performances.
The prompt payment of bonuses reflects the Commission’s commitment to rewarding athletes without unnecessary delays.
Coaches also included in incentive package
The enhanced welfare programme extends beyond athletes.
Dikko revealed that coaches whose athletes win gold medals will each receive a $5,000 bonus in recognition of their contribution to Team Nigeria’s success.
The Commission also confirmed improved daily allowances for members of the delegation.
Athletes are receiving $200 per day, while coaches are entitled to $250 daily, ensuring that both competitors and technical staff are adequately supported throughout the Games.
Special rewards for exceptional performances
Beyond the standard medal bonuses, the NSC also retains the flexibility to award additional incentives for extraordinary achievements.
Dikko cited the example of Rilwan Idris, who reportedly received an on-the-spot financial reward intended to inspire him from a potential bronze-medal position to ultimately secure gold.
The Commission believes such discretionary rewards can provide an additional psychological boost during competition while recognising exceptional effort.
Strong start for Team Nigeria
The improved bonus structure follows an encouraging opening to the Commonwealth Games for Team Nigeria.
Nigeria has already secured medals across several disciplines, particularly in para powerlifting, where athletes have continued the country’s tradition of excellence on the international stage.
Among the standout performers are Folashade Oluwafemiayo, who claimed gold with a world-record lift, Esther Nworgu, who also won gold after setting a new Games record, and Roland Ezuruike, who secured a silver medal.
The early medal success has strengthened optimism that Team Nigeria can surpass its achievements from previous editions of the Commonwealth Games.
Investment in athlete welfare
The NSC says the enhanced financial package forms part of a broader commitment to improving athlete welfare and creating an environment where Nigerian sportsmen and women can perform at their highest level.
Sports administrators have increasingly emphasised that prompt financial support and adequate welfare contribute significantly to improved performances at major international competitions.
With several medal events still to come in Glasgow, Nigerian athletes now have even greater motivation as they continue their quest for podium finishes.
The Commission hopes the revised incentives will inspire Team Nigeria to maintain its impressive momentum and return home with one of its strongest-ever Commonwealth Games medal hauls.
