Lagos State has been chosen to host EKO 2026, the first edition of the National Intermediate Games, with the National Sports Commission (NSC) citing the state’s grassroots development system, sporting infrastructure and experience in staging high-profile events.
Bridging the gap to elite sport
The competition is part of the Commission’s Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy (RHINSE), which aims to create a clearer route from grassroots involvement to elite competition. It will focus on athletes between 15 and 18, a crucial development period when emerging talents need regular contests, supervision and assistance to reach the national level.
NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade said Lagos was the obvious venue for the inaugural Games because of its organised approach to moving athletes from school contests into elite sport.
At the presentation of the event’s logo and mascot, Olopade said the state had repeatedly shown that it could take the lead in sports administration and delivery. He added that he and NSC Chairman Malam Shehu Dikko deliberately chose Lagos because its existing framework could address the persistent difficulty of advancing promising athletes through Nigeria’s sporting system.
A Lagos identity for EKO 2026
The event will also showcase the host city’s culture. Its branding features several local and sporting references, while the official mascot is called Lasgidi.
- The logo includes an Eyo cap.
- It also carries the image of Opambata.
- The word “Eko” forms part of the design.
- Three stars rising upward complete the principal symbols.
Venues and organisational preparations
Lagos’ extensive collection of sports venues was another key reason behind the award. Teslim Balogun Stadium has been designated as the central venue, with competition and event activity also supported by facilities across the state.
- National Stadium, Surulere
- Rowe Park Sports Centre, Yaba
- Agege Township Stadium
- Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan
- Elegbata Sports Complex
- Lagos Tennis Club
- TBS Cricket Oval
- Yaba College of Technology
- University of Lagos
Planning has begun after Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu established a Local Organising Committee to manage the Games’ delivery. Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor Sam Egube is the committee’s chairman, while Lekan Fatodu, Chairman of the Lagos State Sports Commission, and Mobolaji Ogunlende, Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, serve as co-chairmen.
The NSC believes EKO 2026 can establish an additional level within Nigeria’s sports-development structure and provide the platform needed to strengthen the progression of young athletes.
