Nigeria Officially Bids to Host 2031 African Games

Posted : 13 December 2025

Nigeria has formally submitted its bid to the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) to host the 2031 African Games, signaling the nation’s ambition to welcome Africa’s premier multisport event nearly 25 years after successfully hosting the 2003 edition (COJA).

The bid was presented during high-level engagements with the AUSC, where Nigeria reaffirmed its readiness and capability to stage a world-class continental festival. Renowned sports broadcaster and administrator Mainasara Ilo presented the proposal to the council.

Nigeria has showcased exceptional organizational skills through the successful hosting of several major international sporting events. These include the CAA Africa U18/U20 Athletics Championships, Africa Karate Championship, ITTF Africa Youth Table Tennis Championship, African Armwrestling Championship, Badminton National Open, West Africa Para Games, and the African Cadet and Junior Taekwondo Championship. Such achievements underscore the country’s sustained preparedness to host an event of the Africa Games’ magnitude.

Key figures driving Nigeria’s growing influence in continental sports development are the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, and the Director-General, Bukola Olopade. Their leadership has implemented significant reforms and investments that are already delivering measurable results.

Nigeria’s hosting of the CAA U18/U20 Africa Athletics Championships generated substantial economic benefits, stimulating activity across multiple sectors. More than 5,000 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) benefited from increased patronage, injecting significant cash flow into the local economy. Similarly, the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, recognized as a World Athletics Gold Label race, has enhanced Nigeria’s global visibility, attracted elite athletes, boosted tourism, and strengthened international sports partnerships.

In 2024, Nigeria hosted the Africa Military Games, an event that strengthened the nation’s soft power, promoted regional cooperation, and advanced military diplomacy. Additionally, events such as the West Africa Para Games created hundreds of direct jobs while indirectly supporting thousands more in hospitality, transportation, tourism, security, merchandising, and event services.

Nigeria’s bid for the 2031 African Games is driven by a forward-looking vision to leverage sports as a catalyst for national development. The initiative aims to foster unity, empower youth, and instill national pride, while positioning Nigeria as a hub for continental sports excellence.

Nigeria Officially Bids to Host 2031 African Games

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