Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu has congratulated Police athlete Corporal Ezekiel Nathaniel on his historic 400 metres hurdles gold medal at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, saying the victory reflects the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to excellence in sports and personnel development.
Nathaniel produced a commanding performance on Friday night to win the men’s 400 metres hurdles final in a time of 48.47 seconds, securing the Commonwealth title and marking a remarkable improvement from his sixth-place finish at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
The Inspector-General described the achievement as a proud moment for the Nigeria Police Force and the nation, noting that the athlete’s determination, discipline and resilience exemplify the core values of the Force.
Disu said Nathaniel’s outstanding performance not only brought honour to Nigeria but also demonstrated the immense potential that exists within the ranks of the Nigeria Police Force when officers are provided with the right support and opportunities to excel.
According to the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, the Force leadership views the victory as the outcome of sustained institutional investment in sports development, personnel welfare and capacity building.
”The Inspector-General of Police commends Corporal Ezekiel Nathaniel for flying both the Nigerian and Nigeria Police Force flags high on the international stage. His exceptional performance is a shining example of excellence, discipline and perseverance, and an inspiration to officers and men across all commands,” Iniedu said.
He added that Nathaniel’s triumph aligns with the IGP’s strategic agenda on police sports development, personnel welfare and capacity building, which places emphasis on identifying, nurturing and supporting talented officers in sporting and other professional endeavours.
”The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to creating an enabling environment where talented personnel can thrive. Sports remain a critical component of tactical fitness, institutional morale and positive youth engagement, and the Force will continue to invest in programmes that encourage excellence both in service and in international competitions,” Iniedu stated.
The Force spokesman said the Inspector-General, on behalf of the management, officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force, congratulated Corporal Nathaniel on his remarkable achievement and wished him greater success in future competitions.
He noted that the Commonwealth champion’s victory serves as a source of inspiration to police personnel nationwide and reinforces the Force’s resolve to build a professional institution that excels not only in policing but also in sports and other areas of national development.
