EKO 2026: NSC Inspects Lagos Venues Ahead of National Intermediate Games

Posted : 24 August 2026

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has stepped up preparations for the maiden National Intermediate Games, tagged EKO 2026, with another inspection of sports facilities across Lagos. The Games are scheduled for October 1 to 15, 2026, and will bring together young athletes from across Nigeria.

The latest inspection was conducted on Saturday by NSC officials alongside members of the Main Organising Committee (MOC) and Local Organising Committee (LOC). The exercise was led by the NSC Head of Grassroots Development, Niyi Beyioku, while Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye, represented the Director-General of the Commission.

The delegation began at Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere. Officials assessed the playing turf, indoor sports hall and other facilities earmarked for the competition. The team later visited the National Stadium Complex, National Institute for Sports, Rowe Park Sports Centre and Yaba College of Technology.

The inspection also covered University of Lagos sports facilities and hostels, Elegbata Sports Centre and the Cricket Oval at Tafawa Balewa Square. Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan was also assessed as a possible venue for the opening and closing ceremonies.

The facility tour was followed by a technical meeting between the MOC and LOC. The officials reviewed operational, technical and logistical arrangements as organisers work to ensure the venues and supporting structures are ready before the athletes arrive.

The first National Intermediate Games will feature 28 sports. Athletes are expected in Lagos from October 1, while the opening ceremony is scheduled for October 5. The competition is designed for Under-19 athletes, with participants expected from Nigeria's 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory and a Nigerian diaspora contingent.

The official EKO 2026 platform describes the event as a major talent development programme for athletes aged 15 to 18. It says the Games are intended to create a pathway for young athletes to progress from emerging talent towards national, continental and international competition.

The Games have also received strong backing from Lagos State. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu earlier pledged that the state would deliver the maiden edition to a high standard, while rehabilitation work has continued at key facilities, including Teslim Balogun Stadium.

The latest inspection further highlights the organisers' focus on venue readiness, athlete welfare and effective competition management. With October approaching, Lagos is preparing to host a major youth sporting event aimed at identifying and developing Nigeria's next generation of athletes.

EKO 2026: NSC Inspects Lagos Venues Ahead of National Intermediate Games

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