Nigeria’s high-powered delegation, led by National Sports Commission Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, has arrived in London to make a final pitch for hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games. This historic bid would mark the first time the Games are held in Africa, with Nigeria proposing Abuja as the host city.
Mallam Shehu Dikko delivered Nigeria’s initial presentation last month, setting the stage for the decisive round of engagements scheduled for Wednesday.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s full backing of the bid, pledging Nigeria’s readiness to deliver a world-class Games if awarded the hosting rights.
Last week, Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, was among senior government officials who welcomed the Commonwealth Games Bid Evaluation team during their visit to Nigeria, further underscoring the administration’s commitment.
In another reflection of the Federal Government’s commitment, the President’s Special Assistant on Public Communication and Presidential Spokesperson, Hon. Sunday Dare, is part of the delegation to London presenting on Nigeria’s bid.
Also, the delegation includes Bid Coordinator, Mallam Mainasara Ilo; President of the Nigerian Olympic Committee, Engr. Habu Gumel; Honourable Minister of Arts and Culture, Hannatu Musawa; 5-time Olympian and 2-time Commonwelath Games gold medalist, Mary Onyali; and current para-badminton world number one player, Eniola Bolaji.
Amongst other values, Nigeria’s bid is built on a vision of inclusivity, legacy, and development, with promises to deliver a Games that celebrates the Commonwealth spirit while creating long-lasting opportunities for sport, culture, and youth across Africa.
