President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games, describing the country’s bid as a “dream that must come true.”
In a post shared on his official X handle on Wednesday, the president emphasized that no African nation has ever hosted the Games.
He argued that bringing the multi-sport competition to Nigeria would send a “powerful message” about Africa’s central role in the Commonwealth’s future.
Nigeria is expected to present its final pitch before the Games’ evaluation committee later today. The delegation is led by Shehu Dikko, president of the National Sports Commission, alongside Bukola Olopade, the commission’s director-general.
“It’s time for Africa,” Tinubu declared, urging the Commonwealth to “complete the circle of unity” by awarding the 2030 edition to Nigeria.
Nigeria officially declared its interest in April, with Abuja proposed as the host city.
The country now faces competition from India, the only other nation that submitted a formal bid before the August 31 deadline.
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The winner of the bid is expected to be announced in November.
This would not be Nigeria’s first attempt at hosting the Games. The country previously lost out to Glasgow, Scotland, for the 2014 edition.
Glasgow is also set to host the 2026 Games, stepping in after Victoria, Australia, pulled out in 2023.
The Commonwealth Games, held every four years, bring together athletes from mostly former British territories in a showcase of sport and cultural exchange.