Nigeria has launched preparation to host the second edition of the African School Sports Games in 2027, an event poised to be the most significant continental athletic gathering since the inception of the National Sports Commission (NSC).
This ambitious project reflects a national commitment to elevating youth sports and strengthening Nigeria’s presence on the continental stage.
Persecondnews reports that the roadmap for the games began on Tuesday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, where NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko officially inaugurated the Local Organising Committee (LOC), led by Emeka Abari.
This appointment signals Nigeria’s intent to deliver a world-class experience for young athletes from across Africa.
Beyond the competition, Dikko highlighted the games as a “vibrant pan-African celebration” aimed at fostering discipline, personal growth, and resilience among the continent’s rising stars.
“This will be a continental fiesta aimed at developing discipline, character and hope for young athletes,” he said.
He further highlighted how the games represent a strategic effort to bridge education and athletics.
“Hosting of this game is a step the NSC is taking deliberately in synergising School and sports,” Dikko added, noting the initiative’s alignment with the RHINSE program to ensure positive lasting impressions for all participants.
The RHINSE Initiative, which stands for Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy, is a comprehensive program launched by the National Sports Commission (NSC) to reposition sports as a key driver of economic and social development in Nigeria.
At its core, RHINSE operates under the “Reset, Refocus, and Relaunch” (RRR) framework, which emphasizes institutional reforms, restructuring of sports federations, grassroots talent development, and enhanced collaboration with the private sector.
Looking back at Nigeria’s trajectory in sports, NSC Director General Bukola Olopade highlighted the nation’s past successes as a foundation for its current development and future ambitions.
“We came fourth on the medal table with participation in just 10 games which I think is very impressive,” he remarked, pointing to the nation’s strong showing despite limited involvement.
Olopade also recounted the competitive bidding process that led to Nigeria securing the hosting rights.
“Four countries bidded to host this competition and we won. One of the countries that bidded with us had to call President Tinubu to support his country bid, but we won at the end of the day,” he explained, underscoring the diplomatic efforts involved and Nigeria’s ultimate triumph.
Newly appointed LOC Chairman Emeka Abari expressed optimism about the evolving role of sports in Nigeria’s society and economy.
“The perception about sport is gradually shifting due to the leadership quality we have in the sporting ecosystem, sport have for the first time has contributed to the GDP of the country,” he said.
Drawing inspiration from recent world-class competitions, Abari pledged to uphold the same standards of excellence for the upcoming games
“Morocco hosted the best AFCON just few weeks ago, and we are ready to recreate this at the Africa School Sport in 2027.
“This is the time to let Africans know we are the giant,” he added positioning the games as a platform to reaffirm Nigeria’s status as a leading force in African sports.
With the NSC leading the charge, this 2027 showcase is expected to deliver both elite performance and unforgettable experiences, reinforcing Nigeria’s reputation as a world-class host for continental youth sports.
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