Organisers of the first National Intermediate Games, called EKO 2026, showed off the official logo and mascot on Saturday. They called the event a big step in getting ready for the youth sports festival, which will run from 1 to 15 October.
The launch happened at the Marriott Hotel in Ikeja. It had important people like officials from the National Sports Commission (NSC), the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), and members of the Main Organising Committee (MOC) and the Local Organising Committee (LOC).
After the event, Lekan Fatodu, the Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, said this launch shows that the state is ready to host the first edition of the Games.
"What we are seeing today is a sign of the seriousness, dedication, and the promise made by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu that the National Intermediate Games will be a spectacular event in Nigeria's sports history," Mr Fatodu said.
He mentioned that this event will let young athletes show their skills, gain exposure, and improve their sports careers.
Mr Fatodu also answered questions about sports facilities. He said work at the Teslim Balogun Stadium is going according to plan. He added that other venues will come from private schools through smart partnerships.
"Everyone who has been to Teslim Balogun Stadium knows that it has been a construction site for months. We are speeding up work to make sure contractors meet deadlines," he said.
He also shared that Lagos has teamed up with private sports facilities, including the British International School in Lekki, to ensure the Games happen in top-notch venues.
Bukola Olopade, the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, said Lagos was chosen to host because of its strong commitment to developing youth sports.
"Lagos has built a strong grassroots culture, where we see talented athletes grow from primary school through secondary school to the elite level," Mr Olopade said.
He pointed out that the Intermediate Games aim to fill the gap between the National Youth Games and the National Sports Festival. He expects athletes from all 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and invited Nigerians living abroad to participate.
Mr Olopade announced that trials for Nigerian athletes abroad will happen in London on 17 July. Those who do well will join the competition in Lagos.
He said this plan fits with the Federal Government's mission to find talent and encourage young Nigerians abroad to represent the country in international events.
Mobolaji Ogunlende, the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, shared on Facebook after the event that the launch is another big step in preparing for the Games.
He believes the competition will motivate young athletes, promote excellence, and strengthen Lagos' position as Nigeria's top place for sports development.
The National Intermediate Games is a new idea from the National Sports Commission. It aims to create a clear path for athletes moving from youth competitions to elite sports. The first edition will take place in Lagos from 1 to 15 October 2026. Thousands of young athletes are expected to compete in various sports.
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