Nigeria Takes Part in Pre-Olympics Meeting in Los Angeles

Nigeria has joined other national Olympic committees and officials in Los Angeles, USA, for a meeting ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games.

Nigeria's team for the meeting included Bukola Olopade, the Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), and Habu Gumel, the President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC).

This meeting gives countries a chance to connect with the organizers, share important information, and start planning for the Games.

Mr Olopade spoke about Nigeria’s participation, saying it was important to engage with the Olympic organizers early to boost the country's chances at LA28. He said, "Preparations for the Olympic Games cannot begin when athletes arrive at the competition venue. They begin with deliberate planning, strong institutional coordination and early engagement with the Olympic movement. Nigeria’s participation in this meeting reflects our determination to approach LA28 with purpose, clarity and a clear focus on athlete performance."

He added, "We want to build on the lessons of previous Olympic Games, strengthen our preparations and ensure that our athletes have the support, facilities and competitive opportunities they need to represent Nigeria with pride. Our ambition is not simply to participate, but to prepare thoroughly and compete with distinction."

The attendance of both the NSC and NOC leaders shows how important it is for Nigeria's sports authorities to work together as they prepare for the Games.

The Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games are set to take place from 14 to 30 July 2028. This will be the third time Los Angeles hosts the Summer Olympics, having held the Games in 1932 and 1984.

The NSC has committed to working closely with the NOC to create a solid preparation plan. This plan aims to ensure that Team Nigeria is ready to compete at the highest level in Los Angeles.