NIGERIA TO HOST 2027 AFRICAN SCHOOLS GAMES AFTER WINNING BID

By: Gyang Dakwo

Nigeria has been officially chosen to host the second African Schools Games in 2027, after beating strong contenders like South Africa and Kenya.

The announcement was made on Tuesday in Algiers, and it is seen as a big moment for Nigeria in the growth of sports across Africa. It also shows that the country is becoming one of the top places on the continent for hosting major sporting events.

The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, called it a landmark achievement. He said the win matches Nigeria’s long-term plans to grow its sports sector.

“This is a huge win for Nigeria and for the future of sports development on the continent,”  Olopade said. “Our successful bid shows the strong commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to grow sports through the Renewed Hope Agenda. Nigeria is once again proving to be the centre of sporting excellence in Africa.”

He said Nigeria is fully prepared to host the Games and promised that the country would provide world-class facilities, smooth organisation, that will offer a wonderful experience for young athletes coming from all over Africa.

Nigeria’s chances were boosted by the success of recent events such as the National Sports Festival and the 3rd CAA Africa U18 and U20 Athletics Championships. These events were praised for their good planning, care for athletes, and high technical standards.

Olopade also thanked the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa for giving Nigeria the chance to host. He gave his word that work would begin immediately to meet and even go beyond what is expected.

The Nigerian team that made the bid was led by Bukola Olopade, alongside the President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, Habu Gumel.