EKO 2026 to drive school sports development – LOC

The inaugural National Intermediate Games, known as EKO 2026, will serve as more than just a sporting event. Its primary goal is to foster the development of school sports and create a sustainable pathway for identifying and nurturing young talents, as stated by the Local Organising Committee (LOC). Scheduled to take place in Lagos from October 1 to 15, 2026, EKO 2026 is expected to draw around 15,000 athletes from Nigeria's 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

The LOC, chaired by Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Sam Egube, along with Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, and Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, as co-chairmen, is determined to make this Games an integral part of a long-term plan. Egube emphasized that EKO 2026 will not be a one-time sporting event but rather a platform for talent identification, monitoring, and development, while strengthening the connection between school sports, grassroots participation, and elite competition.

He further explained that the Games will provide athletes with tangible incentives, support opportunities, and training shortly after the event. This initiative aligns with the Lagos State Government's ongoing investment in sports infrastructure, particularly at the school and grassroots levels, by creating more conducive environments for young athletes to discover and develop their abilities.