Lagos national intermediate games preparations gather pace as Governor Sanwo-Olu assures world-class hosting ahead of September event

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reaffirmed the state’s readiness to host the maiden edition of the National Intermediate Games, as officials from the Main Organising Committee inspected sporting facilities across the state ahead of the competition scheduled for September.

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The National Intermediate Games, recently introduced by the National Sports Commission, is designed to strengthen the pathway from grassroots sports to elite competition by providing emerging athletes with opportunities for development and exposure.

The inspection team was led by Bukola Olopade, who expressed satisfaction with the level of preparation and infrastructure upgrades underway in Lagos.

During the tour, officials visited the Teslim Balogun Stadium, where extensive rehabilitation work is ongoing. The upgrades include the installation of a new playing surface and improvements to critical sporting infrastructure.

Contractors handling the project assured the commission that the work remains on schedule and that the facility will be delivered before the September commencement date.

The delegation also inspected the indoor sports hall, basketball courts and other venues earmarked for various events during the competition.

Speaking on the state’s preparations for the Lagos National Intermediate Games, Sanwo-Olu said Lagos would leverage its experience in hosting major sporting events to deliver a memorable tournament.

“We will host the Games in a very excellent way because it reflects the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians and our commitment to youth and sports development.

We will host the Games in a manner that will be the envy of stakeholders and custodians of sports across the country,” the governor said.

Sanwo-Olu also commended the leadership of the National Sports Commission, describing its vision for sports development as purposeful and results-driven.

“The National Sports Commission leadership has placed Nigerian sports on the right trajectory. The team is focused, purposeful and committed to results,” he said.

The governor added that sports development requires deliberate planning, sustained investment and effective execution rather than short-term interventions.

“Sports is not magic; it is the product of deliberate planning, intentional investment and consistent execution. What the Commission is doing today gives confidence that Nigerian sports is moving in the right direction,” he said.

The governor recently approved the appointment of a Local Organising Committee to coordinate preparations and ensure the successful delivery of the event.

Olopade praised the Lagos State Government for its commitment to hosting the inaugural competition and noted the state’s strong record in organising international sporting events.

“Lagos has demonstrated commitment and readiness for the Games. It is significant that the first National Sports Festival was hosted in Lagos and now the maiden National Intermediate Games will also take place here,” he said.

He highlighted recent achievements, including Lagos becoming the first African city to host the E1 Powerboat World Championship and the return of the Davis Cup to the state after nearly two decades.

According to Olopade, the Lagos National Intermediate Games will play a crucial role in Nigeria’s athlete development framework by creating a sustainable platform for talent discovery and progression.

“The National Intermediate Games is a critical component of our athlete development framework. It bridges the gap between youth sports and elite competition, providing a sustainable pathway for talent discovery, nurturing and progression,” he said.

Olopade added that the level of collaboration between Lagos State and key stakeholders had strengthened confidence that the event would meet the highest standards.

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The inaugural competition is expected to bring together young athletes from across the country, providing a platform to identify future stars while promoting sports development and national unity.