Tinubu Declares Nigeria Ready To Host 2030 Commonwealth Games
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed confidence that Nigeria is ready to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, promising that the country will deliver a world-class competition that reflects Africa’s diversity and potential.
On Thursday, the President, represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, received the Commonwealth Sport Bid Evaluation Committee at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Addressing the delegation, he assured them that Nigeria is not only capable of hosting but eager to make history.
“What I can assure you is that we’re ready,” Gbajabiamila told the visitors. “We’re willing, we’re able, and we actually want this. It’s been almost 100 years, and the Games have not been held on any soil in Africa. The element of inclusivity is what the Commonwealth is, and we hope that will benefit us.”
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu noted that the Games symbolise unity and diversity, insisting that Africa deserves its turn after nearly a century.
He added that his administration has taken bold steps to reposition sports, including scrapping the Ministry of Sports and replacing it with the National Sports Commission to drive growth.
The President further assured that all infrastructure, security, and hospitality requirements would be met on schedule.
He stressed that Nigeria’s bid goes beyond hosting a sporting event, describing it as a chance to leave a legacy for young people and to strengthen national development through sports.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, argued that Nigeria, as the continent’s largest nation, is best placed to host the Games.
Habu Gumel, President of Commonwealth Sport Nigeria, said the country was also prepared to deliver an environmentally sustainable edition.
Darren Hall, Director of Games and Assurance at Commonwealth Sport, who led the visiting delegation, thanked the Nigerian government for the warm welcome.
“I have been most thrilled by the passion of the Nigerian people in all their endeavours, including sports,” he said.
Nigeria and India are the official bidders for the 2030 Games, with Abuja and Ahmedabad as their proposed host cities.
A final decision will be taken by the Commonwealth Games General Assembly in November 2025.
