Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has confirmed that the state is ready to host the first National Intermediate Games. This came as the Main Organising Committee checked facilities across the state on Wednesday, according to The PUNCH.
The National Intermediate Games was recently launched by the National Sports Commission. The aim is to help young athletes move from grassroots to elite sports. The first edition is set for September.
The inspection team was led by Bukola Olopade, the Director-General of the National Sports Commission. He expressed happiness with how prepared the state is.
During the visit, the team looked at the ongoing work at Teslim Balogun Stadium. The stadium is getting major upgrades, including a new playing surface and better facilities.
The contractors working on the project assured the committee that everything is on schedule. They said the stadium will be ready by September 2026.
The group also checked the indoor sports hall, basketball facilities, and other venues that will host events during the Games.
Governor Sanwo-Olu recently approved the Local Organising Committee for the competition. He wants to ensure it is a world-class event. He pointed out Lagos State's history of hosting big sports events and creating chances for young athletes.
"We will host the Games in a very excellent way because it reflects the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians and our commitment to youth and sports development. We will host the Games in a manner that will be the envy of stakeholders and custodians of sports across the country," Sanwo-Olu said.
He added, "The National Sports Commission leadership has placed Nigerian sports on the right trajectory. The team is focused, purposeful and committed to results. The working relationship between the Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, and the Director-General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, which has remained rancour-free, is very commendable and inspiring.
"We are proud of what they are building, and their vision aligns perfectly with our own aspirations for sports development.
"Sports is not magic; it is the product of deliberate planning, intentional investment and consistent execution. What the Commission is doing today gives confidence that Nigerian sports is moving in the right direction."
Olopade also praised the Lagos State Government for its efforts and commitment to making the competition successful.
"Lagos has demonstrated commitment and readiness for the Games. It is significant that the first National Sports Festival was hosted in Lagos and now the maiden National Intermediate Games will also take place here.
"The state’s track record speaks for itself. In the last year alone, Lagos became the first African city to host the E1 Powerboat World Championship and recently brought the Davis Cup back to Lagos for the first time in nearly two decades.
"Lagos has shown tremendous commitment to hosting the maiden National Intermediate Games. What we have seen during this inspection exercise gives us confidence that the state is prepared to deliver a competition of the highest standards.
"The National Intermediate Games is a critical component of our athlete development framework. It bridges the gap between youth sports and elite competition, providing a sustainable pathway for talent discovery, nurturing and progression.
"We are encouraged by the level of collaboration we have received from Lagos State and all stakeholders."
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