The Chairman of Nigeria’s National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, has thrown his full support behind Nigeria’s bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games. He described the move as a bold and confident step that could help transform the country’s sports sector.
Nigeria submitted its formal interest to host the prestigious international sporting event in Abuja, the country’s capital. The announcement came after the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) met on April 3 to finalize the decision. The country successfully met the March 28 deadline to signal its intention to host the games.
In a statement shared by the NOC’s Public Relations Officer, Tony Nezianya, the committee said that hosting the Commonwealth Games would help showcase Nigeria’s development, promote national unity, and raise the country’s global reputation in sports.
However, the NOC stressed that a full bid can only go forward if the federal government gives its official backing.
Dikko Expresses Confidence in Nigeria’s Readiness
Shehu Dikko made it clear that the National Sports Commission fully supports the NOC’s efforts and is committed to making Nigeria a hub for major continental and global sports competitions.
Dikko said, “We are on the same page with the Nigeria Olympic Committee. Our recent hosting of the Africa Women’s Club Volleyball Championship in Abuja is proof that it is no longer business as usual. We are determined to keep our sports facilities busy and improve our international hosting record.”
Dikko also revealed that the sports infrastructure being prepared for the upcoming National Sports Festival in Abeokuta will not go to waste. After the festival, those same facilities will be used again for the African Junior Athletics Championship, which Nigeria will also host.
“Our goal is to use sport as a driver of economic development, a tool for national cohesion, and a medium for promoting Nigeria’s cultural identity,” Dikko added.
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A Chance to Shine on the Global Stage
Nigeria last hosted a major multi-sport event in 2003 when the African Games were held in Abuja. The country used the opportunity to show its ability to organize large-scale international events, from infrastructure to hospitality and logistics.
According to the NOC, this past experience gives Nigeria a strong foundation to make a serious bid for the 2030 Commonwealth Games. The committee believes Nigeria has the talent, facilities, and determination to host an event that will make the continent proud.
Nezianya said, “The bid is not just about sports. It’s about national pride, economic opportunity, and showing the world that Nigeria can lead when it comes to hosting world-class events.”
Africa in the Spotlight
If Nigeria’s bid is successful, the 2030 Commonwealth Games would mark a significant moment for Africa. The continent is also preparing to host its first Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal, from October 31 to November 13, 2026.
Before that, the next edition of the Commonwealth Games is scheduled to take place in Glasgow, Scotland, from March 17 to 29, 2026.
As Nigeria looks ahead to 2030, many in the country’s sports community believe now is the right time to aim high. With government support and careful planning, Nigeria could become the second African country to host the Commonwealth Games, joining South Africa, which hosted it in 1930.
Whether or not Nigeria gets the nod, Dikko insists that the country’s sports revival is already underway. “We are resetting, refocusing, and relaunching Nigerian sport,” he said. “This bid is part of a bigger journey, and we are ready.”