Lagos State Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has assured that the inaugural National Intermediate Games, scheduled to be hosted by the state, will be delivered to world-class standards. The Governor made this pledge during a facility inspection led by the Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, and the Main Organising Committee (MOC).
The National Intermediate Games, introduced by the NSC, aims to strengthen the transition from grassroots sports—particularly the National Youth Games—to elite sports. The event will take place from October 1 to 15, 2026, featuring 15 compulsory sports. It is designed to serve as a critical platform for discovering future national and international champions.
During the inspection, the delegation examined the ongoing rehabilitation at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, which is undergoing extensive upgrades, including a new playing surface and improved infrastructure. Contractors confirmed that the project remains on schedule for completion ahead of the Games. The team also visited the indoor sports hall, basketball facilities, and other venues designated for the competition.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who recently approved the appointment of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the Games, emphasized Lagos’ track record of hosting major sporting events and its commitment to youth development. “We will host the Games in a very excellent way because it reflects the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians and our commitment to youth and sports development,” Sanwo-Olu said. “We will host the Games in a manner that will be the envy of stakeholders and custodians of sports across the country.”
NSC Director General Bukola Olopade commended the Lagos State government for its sustained investment in sports infrastructure and youth development. He described Lagos as Nigeria’s foremost sports hub and an ideal host for the historic championship. Olopade noted that the National Intermediate Games is one of the Commission’s most significant sports development initiatives, designed to bridge the gap between grassroots and elite sports while creating a sustainable pathway for young athletes aged 16 to 19 years. He expressed confidence that the synergy between the NSC and Lagos State would establish a new benchmark for youth competitions.
Responding on behalf of the newly inaugurated LOC, Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development and Co-Chairman of the committee, Mobolaji Ogunlende, thanked Governor Sanwo-Olu for the confidence reposed in the committee. He assured that members would work diligently to deliver an exceptional tournament capable of transforming the lives of millions of Nigerian youths.
