Nigeria’s youth team is intensifying training in Abuja ahead of the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympics, scheduled to start on October 31.
The athletes are participating in a rigorous camp aimed at enhancing their fitness, building self-confidence, and sharpening their competitive skills in preparation for the fourth Summer Youth Olympic Games. Officials emphasized the squad’s commitment to representing Nigeria with pride.
The event will run from October 31 to November 13, featuring approximately 2,700 athletes under 17. Competitions will take place across Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly, making this the first Olympic-level event hosted in Africa.
National Sports Commission Director-General Bukola Olopade highlighted the Games as a platform for Nigeria to identify, nurture, and display its future Olympic talent while strengthening the athlete development pipeline.
Nigeria will be represented by 31 elite athletes selected by the International Olympic Committee as Athlete Role Models. Tokyo 2020 Olympic wrestling silver medalist Blessing Oborududu, a familiar face in Senegal, will mentor young competitors during the Games.
