Nigeria Bids To Host 2031 African Games

Aiming to showcase its sporting prowess, Nigeria seeks to welcome Africa’s premier multisport event once again.

Nigeria has officially submitted its bid to the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) to host the 2031 African Games, almost 25 years after successfully staging the 2003 edition. The bid was formally presented by sports broadcaster and administrator Mainasara Ilo during high-level meetings with the AUSC, highlighting Nigeria’s readiness to host another world-class continental event.

The nation has proven its organisational capacity through hosting numerous international competitions, including the CAA Africa U18/U20 Athletics Championships, Africa Karate Championship, ITTF Africa Youth Table Tennis Championship, African Armwrestling Championship, West Africa Para Games, and the African Cadet and Junior Taekwondo Championship.

Under the leadership of NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, Nigeria has leveraged sports as a driver of economic growth and continental influence. Previous events like the CAA U18/U20 Africa Athletics Championships benefited over 5,000 SMEs, while the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, a World Athletics Gold Label race, boosted tourism, international visibility, and elite participation.

Other events such as the 2024 Africa Military Games and the West Africa Para Games created hundreds of direct jobs and impacted thousands more across sectors like hospitality, transportation, security, merchandising, and event services.

With its forward-looking vision, Nigeria hopes the 2031 African Games will serve as a catalyst for national development, showcasing its commitment to excellence and leadership in African sports.