By Samuel Akpan
Lagos Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has assured the National Sports Commission (NSC) of the state’s readiness to host a successful and memorable maiden upcoming National Intermediate Games.
He gave the assurance while inspecting key facilities for the competition on Wednesday at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere where extensive rehabilitation is underway with a new grass surface and major infrastructure improvements.
The contractors told the governor that the project will be delivered on schedule by September 2026.
Other venues visited included the National Stadium Complex Surulere, National Institute for Sports, Rowe Park Sports Centre, sports facilities and hostels at Yaba College of Technology and the University of Lagos, Elegbata Sports Centre, the Cricket Oval at Tafawa Balewa Square, and the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, which is being considered for the opening and closing ceremonies.
The team also inspected indoor sports halls, basketball facilities and additional competition venues.
Governor Sanwo-Olu assured the National Sports Commission (NSC) that Lagos is fully prepared to host an exceptional Games, reflecting both national aspirations and the state’s deep commitment to youth and sports development.
He emphasized that the upcoming competition would serve as a benchmark of excellence for sports administrators and stakeholders nationwide.
Commending the NSC’s leadership, the Governor praised its focused, results-driven approach to elevating Nigerian sports.
He specifically lauded the harmonious and inspiring working relationship between NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Bukola Olopade.
True sports development, Sanwo-Olu noted, relies on deliberate planning, strategic investment, and consistent execution rather than chance—qualities he sees in the Commission’s current direction.
He added that Lagos will draw on its extensive experience in hosting major events to create a premier platform for young athletes to thrive.
The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, who joined the governor for the inspection, lauded Lagos state for its commitment and readiness for the competition.
“Lagos has demonstrated commitment and readiness for this 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 one year alone, Lagos became the first African city to host the E1 Powerboat World Championship, and recently hosted the Davis Cup back to Lagos for the first time in nearly two decades,” he said.
He added that the inspection has strengthened confidence in the state’s preparedness.
“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,” Olopade said.
Persecondnews reports that the National Intermediate Games is a flagship initiative of the National Sports Commission designed to boost grassroots sports development, increase competitive opportunities for emerging athletes and build a stronger pipeline of talent for future national and international competitions.
The event is expected to attract thousands of athletes, coaches and officials from across the country and further establish Lagos as one of Africa’s leading sports destinations.
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