FG Pledges World-Class African School Games As Abuja 2027 Hosting Deal Is Signed

FG Pledges World-Class African School Games As Abuja 2027 Hosting Deal Is Signed

By Niyi Busari 

The Federal Government, through the National Sports Commission (NSC), has officially signed the Games Hosting Agreement with the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) for the 2027 African School Games, paving the way for Nigeria to host the continent's premier school sports competition in Abuja, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The agreement was signed during a ceremony held in Abuja on Wednesday, marking a major milestone in preparations for the second edition of the African School Games, branded Abuja 2027.

Speaking at the event, NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, described the hosting rights as a significant achievement for Nigeria and a reflection of the Federal Government's commitment to revitalising sports development under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Dikko said the Games align with the Commission's mandate to strengthen grassroots sports development, noting that school sports remain the foundation of sustainable athletic excellence.

"Developing Nigerian sports from the grassroots is one of our core mandates, and school sports must serve as that foundation. This is why we are working closely with the Federal Ministry of Education to deepen grassroots participation," he said.

He highlighted the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA) initiative, introduced by the Commission as the 38th state at the National Sports Festival, describing it as a successful platform for identifying and nurturing young talents.

According to him, preparations for Abuja 2027 also complement the Commission's efforts to upgrade sporting infrastructure nationwide.

"We are excited to welcome Africa to Abuja in 2027. With ANOCA's collaboration, Nigeria will deliver a world-class event that will set a new benchmark for future editions, just as we have successfully hosted major international competitions in the past," Dikko added.

Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, said hosting the Games reflects the Commission's unwavering commitment to youth and grassroots sports development.

Olopade expressed confidence in the Local Organising Committee led by Lekan Abari, noting that ANOCA had commended the quality of the team assembled to deliver the Games.

"The confidence ANOCA has shown in our organising team demonstrates Nigeria's seriousness and commitment to staging an outstanding edition of the African School Games," he said.

ANOCA President, Mustapha Berraf, praised the Nigerian Government and the leadership of the National Sports Commission for their commitment to youth development through sports.

Describing the agreement as a landmark moment for African sports, Berraf said the signing formally confirmed Abuja as the host city for the 2027 Games.

"This is a great day for sports in Africa and, more importantly, for the children of our continent. The signing of this agreement confirms that Abuja will host the Games, and we wish Nigeria every success in delivering an exceptional event," he said.

The ceremony also featured the presentation of an Honorary Award of Excellence to NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko in recognition of his contributions to sports development in Nigeria and across Africa.

ANOCA also presented a Plaque of Appreciation to the Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, for his leadership and commitment to sports administration.

Among those in attendance were ANOCA First Vice President João Da Costa, Secretary General Ahmed Hashim, ANOCA Treasurer and President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, Engr. Habu Gumel, and Nigeria Olympic Committee Secretary General Babatunde Popoola.

Also present were the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports, Anthony Adeboye; Director General of the National Institute for Sports, Comrade Philip Shaibu; Algerian Ambassador to Nigeria, Hocine Mezoued; and Chairman of the Abuja 2027 Local Organising Committee, Lekan Abari, who unveiled the official Games logo and mascot during the ceremony.