Nigeria bids to become first African nation to host Commonwealth Games
In an ambitious move that could redefine its sporting legacy, Nigeria has officially launched a bid to become the first African nation to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games. If successful, the West African giant would join an elite list of host countries, marking a historic milestone for the continent in global multi-sport events. The Nigeria […]
team nigeria delegation during the opening ceremony of the 2022 birmingham commonwealth games
In an ambitious move that could redefine its sporting legacy, Nigeria has officially launched a bid to become the first African nation to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games.
If successful, the West African giant would join an elite list of host countries, marking a historic milestone for the continent in global multi-sport events.
The Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) confirmed it met the March 28, 2025 deadline for submitting its expression of interest. The announcement followed an executive committee meeting held in Abuja on April 3.
While Nigeria previously lost its bid to host the 2014 Games to Glasgow, the NOC remains optimistic about bringing the prestigious multi-sport event to the nation’s capital. However, moving forward with a formal bid depends on the support and approval of the federal government.
It is worth remembering that the last time Nigeria hosted a major multi-sport tournament was in 2003, when the All-Africa Games were held precisely in the capital.
Tony Nezianya, Public Relations Officer of the NOC, emphasized the significance of the opportunity, noting that hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games would offer a unique platform to showcase Nigeria’s development, boost its international image, and further entrench a strong sports culture across the country.
“Nigeria’s previous experience hosting major events, including the 2003 African Games in Abuja, will serve as a strong foundation to manage the logistics, hospitality, and infrastructure demands of the Commonwealth Games,” the statement read. “This event would also serve as a powerful demonstration of the nation’s progress and readiness.”
Nigeria last hosted a major multi-sport event in 2003, with the African Games (COJA 2003) held in Abuja.
The Commonwealth Games are set to return to Glasgow, Scotland, in 2026, from March 17 to March 29, after the Australian state of Victoria withdrew due to rising costs.