The first National Intermediate Games, called EKO 2026, aims to do more than just hold competitions. It will focus on the growth of school sports and creating a way to find and develop young talents.
The Games will take place in Lagos from October 1 to 15. It is expected to bring together about 15,000 athletes from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The Local Organising Committee (LOC) is led by Sam Egube, who is the Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Lekan Fatodu, the Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, and Mobolaji Ogunlende, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, are the co-chairmen. They stressed that EKO 2026 will not just be a one-time event.
Instead, the Games will create a lasting platform for finding, monitoring, and developing talent. It will also strengthen the connection between school sports, grassroots activities, and top-level competitions.
Mr Egube said, "This is a commitment to human development and to encouraging our sporting system." He added, "Immediately after the event, athletes will benefit from tangible incentives, opportunities for support, and training. As we build new schools, modern sporting facilities are integrated, ensuring that talents are nurtured within school programmes."
He noted, "The initiative complements the Lagos State Government’s ongoing investment in sporting infrastructure, particularly at the school and grassroots levels, by creating better environments for young athletes to discover and develop their abilities."
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu mentioned that EKO 2026 will allow young athletes to showcase their talents. It will also help create a system that keeps promising athletes in Nigeria, according to Mr Egube.
He explained that the state's investment in sports facilities is part of a larger plan to improve sports development in Lagos.
The LOC chairman said that Governor Sanwo-Olu's administration started a major upgrade of sports facilities about three years ago. These projects are taking place in areas like Surulere, Ifako, Bariga, Ikorodu, Epe, Agege, and Badagry.
He added that the Games will go beyond just competition. They will help build a strong grassroots sports system that can produce athletes for Nigeria’s top teams.
With many young athletes expected to take part, EKO 2026 is set to be a key platform for discovering and developing talent. It also gives Lagos a chance to show how grassroots athletes can grow into future national and international stars.
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