President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, assuring the visiting Commonwealth Sport Bid Evaluation Committee that the country is fully prepared to deliver Africa’s first edition of the historic event.
The President, represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, welcomed the delegation on Thursday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, describing the bid as a once-in-a-century opportunity for the African continent.
“What I can assure you is that we’re ready,” Tinubu declared, noting that Nigeria’s bid represents a bold vision to host an inclusive, diverse, and world-class Games that will leave a lasting legacy for youth and national development.
Africa’s Historic Turn
Since the Games began in 1930, no African country has hosted them. Nigeria’s previous bid for 2014 was unsuccessful, while Durban, South Africa, initially won the 2022 hosting rights but withdrew due to financial constraints, paving the way for Birmingham, UK.
“This is Africa’s time,” Tinubu stressed. “The Commonwealth champions unity and diversity, and it is only right that, almost 100 years on, Africa takes its place as host.”
Full Government Backing
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed that Tinubu had signed a Letter of Guarantee to the Commonwealth body, pledging the Federal Government’s total commitment.
Gbajabiamila added:
“The President has put his full weight behind this bid. We’re willing, we’re able, and we actually want this. Nigeria will provide all infrastructural, security, and hospitality needs ahead of schedule.”
Tinubu also noted reforms in the sports sector, including the replacement of the Ministry of Sports with the National Sports Commission, aimed at repositioning sports as a strategic driver of national development.
Strong Case for Nigeria
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, argued that with 22 Commonwealth nations in Africa, Nigeria, as the continent’s largest nation, deserves the honour.
Bid Committee Chairman, Mainasara Illo, unveiled Nigeria’s proposal, which includes 15 sporting events and the introduction of football to boost global visibility and audience engagement.
President of Commonwealth Sport Nigeria, Habu Gumel, assured that the country is prepared to host an environmentally sustainable Games.
Delegation’s Reaction
Director of Games and Assurance at Commonwealth Sport, Darren Hall, who led the visiting team, praised Nigeria’s passion:
“I have been most thrilled by the enthusiasm of the Nigerian people in all their endeavours, including sports. The Commonwealth is approaching its 100-year milestone, and diversity is at its core.”
Nigeria vs. India
Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, and India’s Ahmedabad in Gujarat are the two official bidders for the 2030 Games. The Commonwealth Games General Assembly will make a final decision in November 2025 after evaluating both proposals.