President Bola Tinubu has thrown his full weight behind Nigeria’s bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, describing it as an opportunity to bring the global sporting event to Africa for the first time.
The President’s commitment was conveyed by Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), during a reception in Abuja for the Commonwealth Sport Bid Evaluation Committee.
Dikko said President Tinubu views the Games as more than just a sports event. According to him, it would be a “celebration of Nigeria’s emerging status in sports and a statement of Africa’s inclusivity within the Commonwealth family.”
Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director-General of the NSC, stressed that Nigeria’s bid ticks all the necessary boxes – world-class facilities, political backing, private sector interest, and the passion of Nigerians for sports.
“We have a strong bid committee led by Mainasara Illo, and a detailed bid document that shows our readiness. This visit by the evaluation team gives us confidence that Nigeria’s bid is solid,” Olopade said.
The visiting Commonwealth Sport delegation, led by Darren Hall, Director of Games and Assurance, was shown Abuja’s sporting facilities and engaged with top government officials.
Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, hosted the delegation on Tinubu’s behalf, alongside nine Federal Executive Council members, including Youth Minister Ayodele Olawande, Culture Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa, and Women Affairs Minister Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim.
For Nigeria, securing the Games would not only boost its global sporting reputation but also project Abuja as a modern African capital ready for major international events.
