The Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, has expressed confidence in Lagos State’s readiness to host the inaugural National Intermediate Games, EKO 2026, describing the event as a platform to showcase Nigeria’s sporting potential.
Speaking at a joint technical meeting ahead of the Games, Mr Olopade commended 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,” Mr Olopade said.
He cited the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon as an example of the governor’s support for sporting events, noting that the race was retained and upgraded under Sanwo-Olu’s administration.
Mr Olopade also emphasised the importance of discovering young talents through initiatives targeting secondary school athletes, recalling performances he witnessed at competitions in Asaba and Abeokuta.
According to him, Lagos has demonstrated through its preparations that it can provide the systems and facilities required to host the Games successfully. “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.
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The NSC boss added that the foundation being laid should ensure the Intermediate Games evolve into a national sporting platform beyond the inaugural edition. He urged the technical committee to give the event the attention it deserves and project it as one of Nigeria’s major sporting competitions.
Mr Olopade further called on stakeholders to channel their energy into the Intermediate Games while efforts continue to address challenges in Nigerian football.
Scheduled for 1–15 October, EKO 2026 is expected to bring together over 14,000 young athletes from across Nigeria, providing a platform for talent identification and development.
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