Tinubu: Nigeria Ready to Host Africa’s First Commonwealth Games in 2030

Nigeria has reaffirmed its readiness to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, marking what would be the first time the event is held on African soil.

President Bola Tinubu, represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, received the Commonwealth Sport Bid Evaluation Committee at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday.

Welcoming the delegation, led by Darren Hall, Director of Games and Assurance at Commonwealth Sport and member of the 2030 Evaluation Commission, Gbajabiamila assured that the president’s full support was behind Nigeria’s bid.

“You’re very welcome to Nigeria. I hope you enjoy our great hospitality, which we are known for. Mr President also asked me personally to convey his regards; he fully supports this bid. The President has written a Letter of Guarantee to you; his full weight is behind this bid,” Gbajabiamila said.

“What I can assure you is that we’re ready. We’re willing, we’re able, and we actually want this. It’s been almost 100 years. The games have not been held on any soil in Africa. The element of inclusivity is what the Commonwealth is, and we hope that will benefit us,” he added.

President Tinubu emphasised that the Games would leave a legacy for youth and national development, noting that his administration has introduced bold reforms to reposition sports. He cited the replacement of the Ministry of Sports with the National Sports Commission as part of the strategy to drive development.

He further assured that Nigeria would meet all infrastructural, security, and hospitality requirements ahead of schedule.

Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, argued that Nigeria’s bid represents Africa’s chance for recognition, stressing that the continent has 22 Commonwealth nations. “The President sees the hosting of the Commonwealth Games in 2030, if we win the bid, as a celebration of the country’s growing force in sports, beyond just participation,” Dikko said.

Habu Gumel, President of Commonwealth Sport Nigeria, also declared that the country is prepared to host an environmentally sustainable Games.

Mainasara Illo, Chairman of the Bid Committee, unveiled Nigeria’s proposal, which includes 15 sports, with the addition of football to boost global visibility and audience engagement.

In response, Darren Hall thanked President Tinubu and the Nigerian team, noting: “I have been most thrilled by the passion of the Nigerian people in all their endeavours, including sports.” He added that as the Commonwealth approaches its 100-year milestone, diversity and inclusivity remain at its core.

Nigeria and India remain the two official bidders for the 2030 Games, with Abuja and Ahmedabad (Gujarat) as their respective proposed host cities. The Commonwealth Games General Assembly will decide the host city in November 2025.

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