Joel Ajayi
South-East Representative on the Board of the Nigeria Aquatics Federation (NAqF), Joseph Odobeatu Anayo, popularly known as Ojez, has announced cash rewards of up to 2,000 US dollars for Nigerian swimmers who win medals at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, scheduled to hold from July 23 to August 2, 2026.
Under the incentive package, every Nigerian swimmer who wins a gold medal will receive 2,000 US dollars, silver medallists will earn 1,000 US dollars, while bronze medallists will receive 500 US dollars. Ojez said the initiative is aimed at motivating the athletes and complementing government efforts to ensure Nigeria records a successful outing at the Games.
“Our swimmers deserve every encouragement as they prepare to represent Nigeria at the Commonwealth Games. This reward is my way of motivating them to aim for the podium and make the nation proud,” Ojez said.
He added: “I am offering 2,000 US dollars for every gold medal, 1,000 US dollars for every silver medal and 500 US dollars for every bronze medal won by our swimmers. Excellence deserves to be rewarded.”
The businessman, philanthropist and sports enthusiast stressed that the initiative goes beyond financial rewards, noting that recognition and encouragement are vital to building champions.
“This is not just about money; it is about inspiring our athletes to believe that their hard work and sacrifices are appreciated. Government cannot do it alone. The private sector must continue to partner with the Nigeria Aquatics Federation and other sports bodies to create opportunities for our athletes to succeed,” he said.
Ojez has consistently demonstrated his commitment to rewarding excellence in Nigerian aquatics. Following the recently concluded 17th African Swimming Championships in Oran Algeria, he presented cash rewards to Nigeria’s medal-winning swimmers, Collins Ebingha and India Brown, in recognition of their outstanding performances and for bringing honour to the country.
He has been a long-standing supporter of Nigerian sports since the era of the former National Sports Commission. He has contributed significantly to the development of table tennis, supporting several players from the grassroots to elite level, and currently serves as the South-East Representative on the Board of the Nigeria Aquatics Federation.
He reaffirmed his commitment to working with the government and stakeholders to improve sports facilities, strengthen athlete development programmes and provide greater support for Nigerian athletes competing on the international stage.
