President Bola Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu has boldly declared Nigeria’s ironclad preparedness to stage Africa’s inaugural Commonwealth Games in 2030, positioning the nation as a trailblazer on the global sports stage after nearly a century of continental exclusion.
Standing in for the president, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila delivered the message Thursday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, welcoming the Commonwealth Sport Bid Evaluation Committee led by Darren Hall, Director of Games and Assurance and a key member of the 2030 Evaluation Commission.
Gbajabiamila underscored Nigeria’s vision for an event that embodies the Commonwealth’s core values.
“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’s fully in support of this bid.”
He highlighted the historic injustice, noting the games’ 1930 origins have yet to touch African soil.
“As I said the President has written a Letter of guarantee to you, he’s full weight is behind this bid. What I can assure you is that we’re ready. We’re willing, we’re able, and we actually want this. It’s been 100 years… The games have not been held on any soil in Africa. The element of inclusivity is what Commonwealth is, and we hope that to our benefit.”
Tinubu’s administration views sports as a powerhouse for progress, with Gbajabiamila explaining recent overhauls.
“You know, this administration has set some bold reforms to reposition sports. We see sports as a strategic driver of national development.
The President intentionally scrapped the Ministry of Sports and created a National Sports Commission to drive sports development.”
The president promised timely delivery on all fronts—from infrastructure and security to hospitality—framing the bid as a catalyst for youth empowerment and enduring national growth.
Bolstering the pitch, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, argued Nigeria’s edge over rival bidder India, invoking the continent’s 22 Commonwealth members.
“One thing I want to assure you is that 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.”
President of Commonwealth Sport Nigeria, Habu Gumel, echoed commitments to green hosting practices, while Bid Committee Chairman Mainasara Illo unveiled an innovative lineup of 15 sports, spotlighting football’s inclusion to ignite fan fervor and worldwide appeal.
Hall expressed delight at the reception: “I have been most thrilled by the passion of the Nigerian people in all their endeavors, including sports.”
He reflected on the Commonwealth’s evolution to 56 nations, pushing for broader representation as it nears its centennial. Attendees included heavyweight ministers from Information, Aviation, Culture, Police Affairs, and Housing, each vowing sector-specific excellence for a seamless spectacle.
The four-day delegation tour will engage stakeholders and tour venues, pitting Abuja against India’s Ahmedabad. The Commonwealth Games General Assembly will crown the host in November 2025 following rigorous assessments. (NAN)
