Nigeria has presented a bold bid to host the centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games in 2030. The presentation was made to the Commonwealth Games Federation in London on Wednesday by a high-powered delegation led by the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, and the Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade.
The delegation described the Abuja 2030 bid as a unique opportunity to create a shared legacy that reflects the spirit of the Commonwealth. The proposal emphasises sports excellence, arts, cultural exchange, the creative economy, and empowering Africa’s youth through new opportunities.
The bid draws inspiration from the core values of Commonwealth Sport, which are More in Common, Equality, Humanity, and Destiny. According to the plan, the Abuja Games will unite people across gender, culture, disability, ethnicity, age, and background. The goal is to celebrate what binds the Commonwealth together while offering more people the chance to succeed in sport.
For the first time in one hundred years, Africa could host the Games. The bid highlights equality by offering this historic opportunity to the continent. It also embodies humanity by pledging to change lives and turn one million dreams into one million skills. It carries destiny by positioning Nigeria as the stage for a defining moment that will shape the next century of the Commonwealth through youth, skills, and inclusive growth.
The Nigerian delegation included Bid Coordinator Mallam Mainasara Ilo, President of the Nigerian Olympic Committee, Engr. Habu Gumel, Minister of Arts and Culture, Hannatu Musawa, Presidential Spokesperson, Hon. Sunday Dare, former Olympian and two-time Commonwealth gold medalist Mary Onyali, and world number one para badminton player Eniola Bolaji.
Nigeria’s Abuja 2030 bid is presented as more than a sporting competition. It is framed as a chance to strengthen the values of humanity, equality, and shared destiny while ensuring Africa’s youth play a central role in shaping the future of the Commonwealth.
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