EKO 2026 will showcase Nigeria’s sporting potential, Olopade says

Nigeria’s first National Intermediate Games are being positioned as a major showcase for the country’s sporting potential, with more than 14,000 young athletes expected in Lagos for EKO 2026.

National Sports Commission Director-General Bukola Olopade said Lagos was ready to host the event during a joint technical meeting. He praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Lagos State Government for their commitment to sports development and youth empowerment.

“When you look at the build-up to the first National Intermediate Games, you cannot but marvel at the leadership that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has given to sports in this country,” Olopade said. He pointed to the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon as an example of the governor’s support for sporting events, saying the race had been retained and upgraded under Sanwo-Olu’s administration.

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When you look at the build-up to the first National Intermediate Games, you cannot but marvel at the leadership that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has given to sports in this country

Olopade said the Games would help discover young talent, particularly among secondary school athletes. He recalled performances he had seen at competitions in Asaba and Abeokuta and said Lagos had shown through its preparations that it could provide the facilities and systems needed for a successful event.

“You have not only started putting in place systems and facilities, but you have also brought out the best of your leadership to drive these Games,” he said. EKO 2026 will run from October 1 to 15, and organizers hope the foundation laid for the inaugural edition will allow the Intermediate Games to grow into a national sporting platform.

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You have not only started putting in place systems and facilities, but you have also brought out the best of your leadership to drive these Games