Lagos Ready to Host 14,000 Youths in Inaugural National Intermediate Games
Oluchi Chibuzor Lagos State has announced its readiness to host no fewer than 14,000 Nigerian youths who will converge on the state for the inaugural National Intermediate Games scheduled to
Lagos State has declared its preparedness to host up to 14,000 Nigerian youths participating in the inaugural National Intermediate Games, set to take place from October 1st to 15th, 2026. This 15-day sporting extravaganza, named 'Eko 2026,' aims to bridge the gap between teenage competitions and the senior-level National Sports Festival. The event, open to youths aged 15 to 18, will see all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) compete in 31 sporting events across 28 sports.
Gbenga Omotoso, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy and Chairman of the Media Committee of 'Eko 2026', expressed the state's commitment to delivering an outstanding inaugural edition. He emphasized that the initiative was designed to identify and develop future sporting stars, bridging the gap between young talents and professional athletes.
Omotoso revealed that multiple subcommittees have been established to oversee various aspects of the Games, including security, transportation, and athletes' welfare.
Dr. Sam Egube, the Chairman of Eko 2026 LOC and National Youth Games, highlighted the event's role in promoting national unity and glory through sports. Egube, who serves as the Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Sanwo-Olu, described the competition as a significant platform for youth development, talent discovery, and national unity.
He stressed that the games would provide opportunities for athletes to progress to the National Sports Festival, continental competitions, and ultimately the global sporting stage. Lagos, benefiting from its experience in hosting major international sporting events, aims to deliver a world-class competition and reinforce its status as Nigeria’s sports hub.
The University of Lagos will serve as the primary host for the 14,000 young athletes, while 10 other venues will accommodate the games, including the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Rowe Park, Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Yaba College of Technology Sports Centre, Tafawa Balewa Cricket Oval, the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Elegbata Sports Centre, and the University of Lagos Sports Centre.
Lagos State's Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, confirmed that preparations are moving swiftly, with only 37 days remaining until the Games commence. He assured athletes, officials, and visitors of a secure and memorable experience, urging the media to provide accurate information, promote the state's attractions, and reassure participants of Lagos' readiness to host the event.
Lekan Fatodu, Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, described Lagos as a "serial trailblazer" and assured that the state would leverage its experience in hosting major sporting events to deliver a successful competition. Fatodu emphasized the mechanisms in place for this inaugural edition, in collaboration with the National Sports Commission, which will make it difficult for age cheats to succeed during the games in Lagos.
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