Enekwechi, Folashade Named Team Nigeria Captains for 2026 Commonwealth Games

Enekwechi, Folashade Named Team Nigeria Captains for 2026 Commonwealth Games

By Niyi Busari 

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has appointed Nigeria's leading shot put athlete, Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, as the male captain of Team Nigeria for the 2026 Commonwealth Games scheduled to hold in Glasgow, Scotland, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Enekwechi, a silver medallist at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and one of Africa's most accomplished field athletes, will lead the men's contingent alongside two-time Paralympic champion Folashade Oluwafemilayo, who has been named the team's female captain.

The 33-year-old, who is based in the United States, heads into the Games as the reigning African champion, 2019 African Games champion and current National Sports Festival champion.

Announcing the appointments, Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, said the selection reflects the Commission's commitment to building a strong culture of leadership and mentorship within Team Nigeria.

According to him, Enekwechi and Oluwafemilayo embody the values of excellence, discipline and patriotism, making them ideal role models for the country's emerging athletes.

"We have selected individuals who not only have outstanding records in their respective sports but have also served as exemplary mentors to younger athletes through their dedication, integrity and commitment to Nigeria," Olopade said.

He added that the appointments were also intended to recognise their years of distinguished service and contributions to projecting Nigeria positively on the international sporting stage.

"By entrusting them with the responsibility of leading Team Nigeria to the Commonwealth Games, we are also demonstrating that the nation values their sacrifices and achievements. Their efforts will continue to receive the recognition they deserve, particularly under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda for Sports," he added.

As part of preparations for the Games, Team Nigeria is expected to depart on Thursday, July 2, 2026, for a three-week training camp in Aberdeen, Scotland, ahead of the opening of the Commonwealth Games on July 23 in Glasgow.

Meanwhile, excitement continues to build within the Nigerian contingent as the National Sports Commission is set to unveil the team's official Puma apparel on Wednesday, July 1, before the delegation's departure.