By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Wale Adeniyi, has thrown his weight behind Team Nigeria’s preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, following his unveiling as one of the country’s official ambassadors by the National Sports Commission.
The announcement, made on April 1, 2026, marks a strategic effort to rally national support for the Games by bringing together a distinguished group of administrators, elite athletes, and key stakeholders. Adeniyi’s inclusion in the ambassadorial team highlights the growing collaboration between public institutions and sports development, positioning the Nigeria Customs Service as a key partner in advancing the nation’s global sporting ambitions.
The ambassadorial team features seasoned sports administrators, including Saleh Ahmadu, Amos Adamu, Patrick Ekeji, Alhassan Yakmut, and Gbenga Elegbeleye, all of whom have previously held leadership roles within the National Sports Commission. Their wealth of experience is expected to provide strategic direction and institutional continuity in shaping Nigeria’s participation at the Games.
Also named to the team are accomplished former athletes, including Olympic medalist Daniel Igali and Commonwealth champion Blessing Oborodudu, alongside other stakeholders and private-sector representatives. This blend of technical expertise and athlete representation underscores a deliberate push for inclusivity, credibility, and performance-driven preparation.
Speaking on the development, Adeniyi commended the initiative, noting that sports remain a powerful tool for national unity, youth engagement, and international visibility. He stressed the need for coordinated stakeholder involvement to ensure that Team Nigeria is adequately prepared for global competition.
“The success of Team Nigeria will depend not only on the athletes but on the strength of the support system around them. This ambassadorial initiative is a step in the right direction towards building that collective responsibility,” he said.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games, scheduled to take place in Glasgow from July 23 to August 2, will bring together athletes from across the Commonwealth to compete in a streamlined programme featuring athletics, swimming, boxing, cycling, gymnastics, and fully integrated para-sports.
