President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s determination to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, pledging that the nation is prepared to deliver an inclusive, world-class sporting spectacle that will make history as the first Games ever held on African soil.
The assurance came on Thursday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where Tinubu, represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, received the Commonwealth Sport Bid Evaluation Committee led by Darren Hall, Director of Games and Assurance at Commonwealth Sport.
Welcoming the delegation, President Tinubu underscored Nigeria’s commitment to showcasing unity, diversity, and excellence through the Games. He stressed that Africa, with 21 Commonwealth member nations, deserves its long-overdue moment after nearly a century.
“It’s been almost 100 years, and the Games have never been staged in Africa,” Gbajabiamila said on behalf of the President. “Nigeria is ready, willing, and able. Mr. President has written a Letter of Guarantee, pledging his full weight behind this bid. Our goal is not just to host but to leave a lasting legacy for our youth and for national development.”
Nigeria’s Renewed Bid
Nigeria previously bid unsuccessfully for the 2014 Games, while Durban, South Africa, won the rights for 2022 but later withdrew due to financial constraints, forcing Birmingham, UK, to step in as host. Abuja’s 2030 bid therefore represents Africa’s strongest chance yet at hosting the prestigious event.
Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the newly established National Sports Commission, emphasized Nigeria’s credibility, saying: “The President sees hosting the 2030 Games as a celebration of Nigeria’s rising strength in sports, beyond participation. Africa deserves this honour, and Nigeria is ready to lead.”
Habu Gumel, President of Commonwealth Sport Nigeria, assured the evaluation team that Nigeria’s Games will be environmentally sustainable, while Bid Committee Chairman, Mainasara Illo, presented detailed proposals including 15 sports — with football added as a new feature to boost global excitement and visibility.
Government Backing and Bold Reforms
President Tinubu highlighted his administration’s bold reforms in the sports sector, including replacing the Ministry of Sports with the National Sports Commission, designed to drive development and unlock sports as a tool for national growth.
He assured the delegation that Nigeria will meet all infrastructure, security, and hospitality requirements ahead of schedule, promising a Games that will reflect excellence and inclusivity.
Gbajabiamila also called on the committee to experience Nigeria’s famed hospitality during their stay: “You are very welcome to Nigeria. We are known for our warmth, and we hope you see the passion of our people, which defines our readiness.”
Commonwealth’s Response
In response, Darren Hall expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s passion and preparation: “I have been most thrilled by the enthusiasm of the Nigerian people in all their endeavours, including sports. As the Commonwealth approaches its 100-year milestone, diversity and inclusivity remain central to our vision.”
Looking Ahead
Ministers present — including Muhammed Idris (Information and National Orientation), Festus Keyamo (Aviation), Hannatu Musa Musawa (Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy), Ahmed Musa Dangiwa (Housing and Urban Development), and Ibrahim Gaidam (Police Affairs) — reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the bid.
Nigeria and India, with Abuja and Ahmedabad as proposed host cities, are the official contenders for the 2030 Games. The final decision on the host city will be made by the Commonwealth Games General Assembly in November 2025.
If successful, Nigeria’s bid will mark a historic first for Africa, making the 2030 Commonwealth Games not just a sporting event but a defining moment for the continent.
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