Nigeria has emphasized comprehensive sports reforms as the cornerstone of its groundbreaking campaign to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, marking the first time the event would be held on African soil.
On Thursday, President Bola Tinubu, represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, officially welcomed the Commonwealth Sport Bid Evaluation Committee delegation at the State House in Abuja.
Gbajabiamila reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering dedication to delivering an inclusive, diverse, and world-class sporting event, revealing that President Tinubu has already submitted a formal letter of guarantee endorsing the bid with full presidential backing.
“We warmly welcome you to Nigeria and trust you will experience the renowned hospitality our nation offers. The President sends his personal regards and stands firmly behind this bid. As mentioned, he has provided a Letter of Guarantee, lending his full support,” Gbajabiamila conveyed to the committee.
He highlighted the government’s strategic move to dissolve the Ministry of Sports and establish the National Sports Commission as a deliberate effort to elevate sports as a pivotal element of national progress.
“I assure you that Nigeria is prepared, eager, and capable. It has been a century since the Games have been hosted outside other continents. The Commonwealth Games embody inclusivity, and we believe this will work to our advantage,” he added.
President Tinubu also pledged that Nigeria would ensure the provision of all necessary infrastructure, security measures, and hospitality services in preparation for the Games.
He emphasized that the bid transcends merely hosting the event; it aims to create a lasting legacy for the nation’s youth and contribute significantly to national development.
The visiting delegation was led by Darren Hall, Director of Games and Assurance and a member of the 2030 Evaluation Commission.
Hall expressed his admiration for Nigeria’s enthusiasm for sports, noting that as the Commonwealth approaches its centenary with 56 member nations, it is actively pursuing greater inclusivity and diversity.
Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), advocated strongly for Nigeria’s bid over India’s, underscoring that Africa, home to 22 Commonwealth countries, deserves the honor of hosting, with Nigeria as the continent’s leading nation.
“The President views hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games not just as an event but as a celebration of Nigeria’s rising prominence in sports, moving beyond mere participation,” Dikko stated.
Habu Gumel, President of Commonwealth Sport Nigeria, highlighted the country’s commitment to organizing an environmentally responsible and sustainable Games, while Mainasara Illo, Chairman of the Bid Committee, detailed Nigeria’s proposal featuring 15 sports disciplines, including football to enhance excitement and global appeal.
Nigeria and India remain the official contenders for the 2030 Games, with Abuja and Ahmedabad proposed as their respective host cities.
The final decision on the host city will be made by the Commonwealth Games General Assembly in November 2025, following a thorough evaluation of both bids.
Senior government officials present at the meeting included the Ministers of Information, Aviation, Culture, Police Affairs, and Housing.
