Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Wednesday inaugurated the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the maiden edition of the National Intermediate Games (NIG), tagged Lagos 2026.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held at the Banquet Hall of Lagos House, Marina, the governor charged members of the committee to discharge their responsibilities with dedication, professionalism and a strong sense of purpose.
He described the LOC’s assignment as a key step in advancing sports development in Nigeria and creating opportunities for young athletes across the country.
Sanwo-Olu said the National Intermediate Games would serve as a platform for discovering and showcasing young sporting talents, while also promoting growth and excellence in athletics nationwide.
According to him, Lagos State’s decision to host the event in October 2026 reflects its commitment to youth empowerment, sports development, and national integration.
He added that the competition would also foster social inclusion and cultural exchange among participants from different parts of the country.
“The games represent more than a sporting event. They are an investment into the future of our young people and an avenue to strengthen unity and create opportunities through sports,” he said.
During a courtesy visit by members of the LOC led by the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Mr. Bukola Olopade, the governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritising sports development.
He noted that sporting activities require deliberate planning, sustained investment and consistent follow-through to achieve meaningful results.
“Sporting activities are not magic; they are a deliberate, intentional investment that you must build up on,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He also commended reforms within the National Sports Commission, praising both its leadership and ongoing efforts to reposition sports in Nigeria.
Olopade, in his remarks, commended Lagos State for its consistent investment in sports infrastructure and youth development.
He expressed confidence in the state’s capacity to successfully host the maiden edition of the National Intermediate Games, describing Lagos as a key driver in Africa’s emerging sports economy.
He noted that Lagos already plays a significant role in the global sports ecosystem and will continue to benefit from future growth in the industry.
“The 8.8 trillion dollar economy of sports that is going to happen in the next 20 years has Lagos with a footprint in it already,” Olopade said.
Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development and Co-Chairman of the LOC, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, thanked the governor for the confidence placed in the committee and pledged commitment to delivering a successful event.
He said the LOC would work to ensure the games create lasting impact for Nigerian youths and open up opportunities at both national and international levels.
Also speaking, the Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, expressed readiness for the state to host the tournament.
The National Intermediate Games is expected to bring together young athletes from across Nigeria, serving as a platform for talent identification, development and long-term sports growth.
