August 5, 2025 – Nigeria has officially secured the hosting rights for the 2nd African Schools Games, scheduled to take place in 2027. The announcement was made on Tuesday in Algiers after a competitive bidding process in which Nigeria emerged ahead of strong contenders, including South Africa and Kenya.
Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, expressed his pride in the achievement, calling it a milestone for the country’s sports sector. “This is a huge win for Nigeria and for the future of sports development on the continent. Our successful bid is a testament to the unhinged commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to sports excellence,” he said.
Olopade further highlighted that the win aligns with the Renewed Hope Mandate, positioning Nigeria once again as a hub for sports excellence in Africa. He emphasized that the event would boost the sports economy and strengthen Nigeria’s international reputation as a prime destination for global sporting events.
“In 2027, Nigeria will deliver an unforgettable experience for young athletes from across the continent,” he assured.
The country’s recent record of successfully organizing major sporting events played a significant role in securing the hosting rights. Competitions such as the National Sports Festival and the 3rd CAA Africa U18/U20 Athletics Championships received high praise for their organization, athlete experience, and quality of facilities.
Olopade commended the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa for trusting Nigeria with the responsibility, promising that preparations would begin immediately to meet the highest standards.
The Nigerian delegation that led the bid included Hon. Bukola Olopade and the President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, Habu Gumel.
The 2nd African Schools Games is expected to attract young athletes from across the continent, providing a platform for talent discovery, sports tourism, and economic growth, while further cementing Nigeria’s position in the global sports arena.