NIGERIA MAKES HISTORY IN DAKAR! THREE GOLD MEDALS SEAL COUNTRY’S BEST-EVER YOUTH OLYMPIC PERFORMANCE

Team Nigeria has recorded its best-ever appearance at the Youth Olympic Games, winning three gold medals at Dakar 2026 in Senegal. The historic achievement surpasses the country’s previous best of two gold medals at the inaugural edition in Singapore in 2010.

The golden campaign was powered by Bright Gift, Rosemary Nwankwo and Praise Ugoh, who delivered outstanding performances in athletics. Gift became the first Nigerian to win the men’s 100m title, clocking 10.28 seconds to claim gold and set a new Games record.

Rosemary Nwankwo completed Nigeria’s historic sprint double by winning the women’s 100m in 11.16 seconds, making Nigeria the first country to win both 100m titles at the same edition of the competition. Praise Ugoh also made history in the women’s 400m, winning gold in a personal best of 52.76 seconds.

The National Sports Commission has attributed the success to sustained investment in grassroots development, talent identification and competitive opportunities for young athletes. Initiatives such as the Invited Junior Athletes Programme, National Sports Festival and the CAA Africa U-18/U-20 Athletics Championships in Abeokuta were highlighted as important platforms for discovering and nurturing emerging talents.

The Commission, under the leadership of Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade, also acknowledged the contributions of grassroots sports officials, coaches, technical personnel and other support staff. The Nigeria Olympic Committee, led by Engr. Habu Gumel, was equally commended for its support and coordination.

Beyond the three gold medals, Nigeria’s performance in Dakar has raised hopes for the country’s sporting future, reinforcing the importance of sustained grassroots investment and the development of young talents capable of achieving success on the global stage.