In a significant move to strengthen its bid for the centenary Commonwealth Games in 2030, Nigeria presented an advanced proposal to the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) in London on Wednesday.
The delegation, led by Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, and Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director General, emphasised the bid’s potential to create a shared legacy that embodies the spirit of the Commonwealth.
Nigeria’s presentation highlighted a comprehensive approach, focusing on several key areas including promoting sports excellence, fostering international cultural exchange, and harnessing the burgeoning creative economy. The bid aims to build a legacy that not only celebrates the Commonwealth’s values but also actively shapes the future of African youth.
At the core of the Abuja 2030 Games proposal are the fundamental values of Commonwealth Sport—More in Common, Equality, Humanity, and Destiny. The Games are designed to unite individuals of varied gender, ability, culture, ethnicity, and background through the transformative power of sport. The initiative aims to foster solidarity and open new pathways for success in athletics.
This bid marks a historic opportunity for Africa, as it is poised to be the first time in 100 years that the continent hosts the Commonwealth Games. Nigeria’s ambition is not only to establish equality but also to transform lives, concretising aspirations into skills for one million young individuals.
Additionally, the bid is seen as a defining moment for the Commonwealth, with Nigeria positioning itself as a beacon of youth empowerment and inclusive growth over the next century.
Among the Nigerian delegation were influential figures such as Mallam Mainasara Ilo, Bid Coordinator; Engr. Habu Gumel, President of the Nigerian Olympic Committee; Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Arts and Culture; Hon. Sunday Dare, Presidential Spokesperson; Olympic champion Mary Onyali; and current world number one para-badminton player, Eniola Bolaji.
As Nigeria advances its Abuja 2030 bid, the nation aims to ensure that Africa’s youth play a crucial role in shaping a vibrant and inclusive Commonwealth future.
