Nigeria has taken major steps in its bid to host the historic first Commonwealth Games in Africa by 2030.
President Tinubu, represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, formally received the delegation of the Commonwealth Sport Bid Evaluation Committee on Thursday at the State House, Abuja.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to hosting an inclusive, diverse, and world-class 2030 Commonwealth Games on African soil, the president emphasised that Africa deserves its moment nearly a century.
During a strategic talk with the delegation led by Darren Hall, Director of Games and Assurance, and a member of the 2030 Evaluation Commission, President Tinubu highlighted that the Commonwealth advocates unity and diversity.
The Games have never been hosted in Africa since their inception in 1930—making Nigeria’s bid historic and overdue.
”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.
”As I said, the President has written a Letter of guarantee to you; his 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 the Commonwealth is, and we hope that to our benefit.
”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.”
President Tinubu assured the delegation that all infrastructure, security, and hospitality needs will be met ahead of schedule.
He emphasised that Nigeria’s bid is not just about hosting but impacting a legacy for youth and national development.
Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, made a strong case for Nigeria over India, stressing that Africa has 22 Commonwealth nations, and Nigeria—as the continent’s giant—deserves the honour.
”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, said the country is ready to host an environmentally sustainable Games.
Mainasara Illo, Chairman of the Bid Committee, presented Nigeria’s proposal. He spotlights key plans and innovations.
He revealed that Nigeria proposes 15 sports, with football introduced to boost excitement, global visibility, and audience engagement.
Darren Hall, Director of Games and Assurance, thanked President Tinubu and the Nigerian team for their warm reception.
“I have been most thrilled by the passion of the Nigerian people in all their endeavors, including sports.”
He said the Commonwealth, now comprising 56 nations, targets reflecting greater diversity as it approaches its 100-year milestone.
Top government officials attended the meeting, including Ministers of Information, Aviation, Culture, police affairs, and Housing.
Nigeria and India are the two official bidders for the 2030 Games, with Abuja and Ahmedabad as their proposed host cities.
The Commonwealth Games General Assembly will decide the host city in November 2025, after thorough evaluation of both bids.