Nigeria has taken a major step toward making history as the country seeks to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Abuja. At the African Sports Ministers’ meeting organized by the African Union Commission, NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko made a passionate appeal for Africa’s backing, urging that the Games be seen as a collective African project.
“Africa has never hosted the Commonwealth Games, despite almost half the countries in Africa being members of the Commonwealth,” Dikko stated. He explained that Nigeria has already submitted its expression of interest and held collaborative meetings with the Commonwealth Secretariat in London, putting the nation forward as the only African contender in the race, alongside countries like India and Canada.
Dikko emphasized the importance of unity and African solidarity, saying that Nigeria’s ambition goes beyond national pride. According to him, hosting the Games would make history for the entire continent and “deliver a world-class event that would further showcase Africa’s strength, unity, and potential on the global stage.”
The African Sports Ministers welcomed the proposal and gave unanimous support for Nigeria’s bid. The meeting promised solidarity from across the continent, signaling a strong African front in the competition to secure the 2030 Commonwealth Games.
This endorsement positions Nigeria as a serious contender and strengthens its chances of bringing the major sporting event to Africa for the first time, a move that could boost tourism, create jobs, and attract international investment.