Lagos State bids to host 2026 National Youth Games
Lagos State has officially submitted a bid to host the 2026 edition of the National Youth Games (NYG), reinforcing its reputation as Nigeria’s sporting and cultural powerhouse. The bid, endorsed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, was presented by a delegation from the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), signaling the state’s strong commitment to youth development and sports excellence.
In the statement that accompanied the submission, the Lagos delegation described the state as Nigeria’s “foremost economic and cultural epicenter,” and pledged to foster “sporting excellence and nurture youth talent across the nation.” The statement also highlighted Lagos State’s extensive experience in hosting major sporting events and emphasized its readiness to deliver a world-class edition of the Games. “With facilities such as the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Mobolaji Johnson Arena, and Rowe Park, along with a wide range of accommodation options and a modern transport network, Lagos is fully equipped to host a seamless and memorable National Youth Games,” the statement read.
The bid was formally submitted by a high-level team led by the Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Hon. Lekan Fatodu. He was joined by Mr. Nunayon Olumide Travih, Director of Sports; Dr. (Mrs.) Oluyomi Oluwasanmi, Director of School Sports; and Mr. Dare Orimoloye, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports. The last edition of the National Youth Games was held in 2024 in Asaba, Delta State, where Team Delta topped the medal table with an impressive haul of 111 medals 46 gold, 31 silver, and 34 bronze.
The National Youth Games serve as a critical platform for discovering and grooming Nigeria’s next generation of sports stars, with many participants going on to represent the country at continental and global competitions.
