Team Nigeria has recorded its best-ever performance at the Youth Olympic Games, winning three gold medals at the Dakar 2026 edition in Senegal to surpass the country's previous record at the competition.

Nigeria's remarkable campaign was highlighted by historic victories, record-breaking performances and the emergence of a new generation of sporting talents, with three athletes making their mark in the country's sporting history.

Bright Gift, Rosemary Nwankwo and Praise Ugoh accounted for Nigeria's three gold medals, delivering a historic sprint double and a landmark victory in the women's 400m.

Bright Gift became the first Nigerian to win the men's 100m title at the Youth Olympic Games after clocking an impressive 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. Her victory made Nigeria the first country to win both the men's and women's 100m titles at the same edition of the Youth Olympic Games.

Praise Ugoh rounded off the golden campaign with victory in the women's 400m, setting a personal best of 52.76 seconds to become the first Nigerian to win the event's title at the competition.

The three gold medals represent a new milestone for Nigeria, surpassing the country's previous best of two gold medals recorded at the inaugural Youth Olympic Games in Singapore in 2010.

The National Sports Commission (NSC) attributed the achievement to sustained efforts in grassroots sports development, talent identification and the provision of competitive platforms to discover, nurture and prepare young athletes for international competitions.

The Commission's Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, and Director-General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, were recognised for their commitment to grassroots sports development and initiatives aimed at building a pipeline of future champions.

A major part of the strategy is the Commission's Invited Junior Athletes Initiative, alongside the National Sports Festival and the hosting of the CAA Africa U18/U20 Athletics Championships in Abeokuta.

These platforms have created opportunities for emerging athletes to compete, gain exposure and develop the experience required to represent Nigeria at international competitions.

The Director of Grassroots Sports Development at the Commission, Prince Niyi Beyeku, alongside other key contributors, including Lekan Alabi, was also recognised for the work involved in implementing programmes that strengthen talent discovery and development across the country.

The Nigeria Olympic Committee, under the leadership of its President, Engr. Habu Gumel, also maintained its support and leadership in coordinating Nigeria's participation at the Games.

The NSC commended the athletes, coaches, technical officials, medical personnel and backroom staff whose commitment, preparation and hard work contributed to the historic achievement.

Beyond the medals, Nigeria's performance in Dakar represents a significant boost for the country's sporting future. The emergence of the young champions has further highlighted the importance of sustained investment in grassroots development and the need to create more opportunities for promising athletes to excel on the international stage.