Record-breaking Schlueter targets Commonwealth Games gold after switching allegiance to Nigeria
GLASGOW (Made In Africa Sport) – Nigeria’s national decathlon record holder Jami Schlueter says he switched his international allegiance from Great Britain because he wanted to help write a new chapter in the country’s athletics history.
The 23-year-old, who will represent Nigeria at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, said wearing the country’s colours was a privilege rather than a career decision and that he was determined to challenge for gold.
Schlueter has enjoyed a breakthrough season since becoming eligible to compete for Nigeria.
He broke the national decathlon record at the Mt SAC Relays in California in April, scoring 7,681 points to surpass Peter Moreno’s mark set in 2017.
Two months later, he became the first Nigerian to surpass 8,000 points in the event after recording 8,024 points at a meeting in Dallas, Texas.
Born to German, Nigerian and British parents, Schlueter previously represented England at junior level before obtaining a Nigerian passport in 2025.
He said the opportunity to compete for Nigeria was driven by identity and ambition rather than convenience.
“I competed for England as a junior athlete coming through the ranks. So, I’m German, Nigerian, British,” Schlueter told NSC Media.
“A lot of people make sport transactional, but really competing for your country is a privilege. So, for me representing Nigeria is a privilege.”
Schlueter said he wanted to contribute to the progress being made by Nigerian athletics and help inspire future generations.
“I want to be part of a team that’s making history and there are guys around me who are constantly doing that every day,” he said.
“So I want to be part of something great and be great myself.”
His arrival is part of a wider trend of athletes with dual nationality choosing to represent Nigeria, strengthening the country’s athletics programme ahead of major international competitions.
Schlueter will now look to translate his record-breaking form into Commonwealth Games success as he joins Team Nigeria‘s bid for medals in Glasgow.