Nigeria has taken a significant step towards hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games, with President Bola Tinubu reaffirming the country’s commitment to delivering an inclusive, diverse, and world-class event on African soil. The President made this assurance during a meeting with the Commonwealth Sport Bid Evaluation Committee at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, President Tinubu emphasized that the Commonwealth champions unity and diversity, and Africa deserves its moment after nearly a century. The Games have never been hosted in Africa since their inception in 1930, making Nigeria’s bid historic and overdue.
Key Highlights of Nigeria’s Bid
- Inclusive and Diverse Event: Nigeria aims to host a world-class event that showcases the country’s sporting and organizational capabilities.
- Environmental Sustainability: The country is prepared to host an environmentally sustainable Games, according to Habu Gumel, President of Commonwealth Sport Nigeria.
- 15 Sports: Nigeria proposes 15 sports, including football, to boost excitement, global visibility, and audience engagement.
- Legacy for Youth and National Development: President Tinubu stressed that Nigeria’s bid is not just about hosting but also leaving a lasting legacy for youth and national growth.
Government’s Commitment
The federal government has expressed its full support for the bid, with several ministers attending the meeting and making statements in support of the bid. President Tinubu has written a Letter of Guarantee, assuring the delegation of his full weight behind the bid.
“We’re ready. We’re willing, we’re able, and we actually want this. It’s been almost 100 years. The games have not been held on any soil in Africa,” Gbajabiamila said, emphasizing Nigeria’s readiness to host the Games.
The Commonwealth Games General Assembly will decide the host city in November 2025, after thoroughly evaluating both bids from Nigeria and India. If successful, Nigeria will become the first African nation to host the Commonwealth Games