Tinubu Says Nigeria Ready To Host 2030 Commonwealth Games

Nigeria has declared its readiness to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games as President Bola Tinubu welcomed the Commonwealth Sport Bid Evaluation Committee to Abuja on Thursday.

Tinubu, represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, assured the visiting team that Nigeria has the infrastructure, security arrangements, and hospitality capacity required to successfully stage the event. He said his administration has repositioned sports by replacing the Ministry of Sports with the National Sports Commission to drive growth in the sector.

The delegation, led by Darren Hall, Director of Games and Assurance at Commonwealth Sport, held talks with Gbajabiamila, government ministers, and senior officials. The Nigerian side argued that Africa, home to 21 Commonwealth nations, deserves the honour of hosting the Games for the first time since their inception in 1930.

Tinubu said the Games symbolise unity and diversity, adding that Nigeria’s bid is not just about hosting but also about leaving a legacy for youth and national development. He stressed that all facilities, security plans, and logistics would be ready ahead of schedule.

Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, said Nigeria’s bid carries weight as the continent’s largest nation, while Habu Gumel, President of Commonwealth Sport Nigeria, pledged that the event would be environmentally sustainable. Bid Committee Chairman, Mainasara Illo, unveiled Nigeria’s proposal, which includes 15 sports with football added to boost global appeal.

The evaluation team commended Nigeria’s passion and hospitality, with Hall noting the importance of diversity as the Commonwealth approaches its centenary.

Nigeria is competing with India, which has proposed Ahmedabad in Gujarat as its host city. Abuja is Nigeria’s candidate city, and the Commonwealth Games General Assembly will announce the final decision in November 2025.