Lagos: The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced Lagos State as the host for the maiden edition of the National Intermediate Games scheduled for 2026. This initiative is part of the Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy (RHINSE), focusing on identifying, monitoring, and developing young sporting talents in Nigeria aged between 16 and 19.
According to Voice of Nigeria, Kehinde Ajayi, Director of Media at NSC, stated that this new event aims to build a strong grassroots sports model in Nigeria, which will create an organic pathway to the elite level. NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko emphasized the importance of having the right structure for sustained international success, noting that the Intermediate Games are a step towards this vision.
Dikko highlighted that the foundation of lasting sports development lies in an effective grassroots system, aligning with the President’s mandate. Similarly, NSC Director General Mr. Bukola Olopade described the games as a strategic move to address age-related challenges in grassroots sports. He noted that with existing events like the National Youth Games and National Sports Festival, the Intermediate Games would enhance talent progression at the grassroots level.
Olopade also pointed out that Lagos hosting the first edition signifies a significant milestone in Nigeria’s sporting history.