By Kwame Mensah, West Africa Sports Correspondent
Abuja — Nigeria has officially submitted its bid to the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) to host the 2031 African Games, reaffirming its ambition to stage Africa’s premier multisport event nearly 25 years after successfully hosting the 2003 edition.
The Nigeria Sports Commission announced on Friday that the bid was presented during high-level engagements with AUSC officials, where the country restated its readiness and capacity to deliver a world-class continental festival. The presentation was made by renowned sports broadcaster and administrator, Mainasara Ilo.
Nigeria’s track record in hosting major international competitions has been widely acknowledged. In recent years, the country has successfully staged events such as the CAA Africa U18/U20 Athletics Championships, Africa Karate Championship, ITTF Africa Youth Table Tennis Championship, African Armwrestling Championship, Badminton National Open, West Africa Para Games, and the African Cadet and Junior Taekwondo Championship.
Key figures driving Nigeria’s sports development agenda include the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, and the Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade. Both have consistently championed the growth of Nigeria’s sports economy and positioned the nation as a hub for continental sporting excellence.
The economic benefits of Nigeria’s sports hosting efforts have been significant. The CAA U18/U20 Africa Athletics Championships alone generated major economic impact, with over 5,000 small and medium enterprises benefiting from increased patronage. Similarly, the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon—recognized as a World Athletics Gold Label race—has boosted Nigeria’s global visibility, attracted elite athletes, and enhanced tourism.
Nigeria also hosted the 2024 Africa Military Games, strengthening regional cooperation and advancing military diplomacy. The West Africa Para Games further created hundreds of direct jobs and supported thousands more across hospitality, transportation, tourism, and event services.
With its bid for the 2031 African Games, Nigeria is pursuing a forward-looking vision to harness sports as a catalyst for national development, regional integration, and continental pride.
