By Hadiza Isyaku Abdulsalam
Nigeria has formally submitted its bid to host the 2031 African Games, signaling the nation’s ambition to welcome Africa’s premier multisport event nearly 25 years after hosting the 2003 edition.
Ace sports broadcaster and administrator, Mainasara Ilo, presented the bid during a high-level engagement meeting with the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) on 12th December, 2025.
He said”We are confident in our ability to host a world-class continental festival, leveraging our experience in hosting major international sporting events.”
Nigeria has demonstrated exceptional organizational capability by successfully hosting a series of major international sporting events, including the CAA Africa U18/U20 Athletics Championships and the Africa Karate Championship.
According to the National Sports Commission (NSC) Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, “Sports remain a powerful tool for fostering unity, empowering young people, and promoting national pride.”
The Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, added that Nigeria’s bid is guided by a forward-looking vision to harness sports as a catalyst for national development.
The successful hosting of the CAA U18/U20 Africa Athletics Championships generated significant economic impact, stimulating activity across multiple value chains and benefiting over 5,000 small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
“We are committed to harnessing the power of sports to drive economic growth and development,” Olopade said.
Nigeria’s bid to host the 2031 African Games is seen as a major opportunity for the country to exhibit its capabilities and promote national pride.