The Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, has reiterated the state’s preparedness to host the 10th edition of the National Youth Games in 2026.
Lagos State formally submitted its bid earlier this year, followed by a two-day inspection tour of sports facilities by senior officials of the Lagos State Sports Commission and a delegation from the National Sports Commission (NSC).
The inspection covered major venues including Teslim Balogun Stadium, the National Stadium, Elegbata Sports Complex, Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan, the Cricket Oval at Tafawa Balewa Square, Rowe Park Sports Centre in Yaba, University of Lagos Sports Complex, CMS Grammar School in Bariga, and Agege Stadium.
Speaking during the tour, Fatodu highlighted Lagos State’s track record in hosting high-profile sporting events and assured that the state is positioned to deliver a landmark edition of the games.
“As an experienced host, Lagos is poised to stage a history-making Youth Games in 2026,” he said.
“We see sports not just as recreation but as a lifelong pursuit of purpose. Our vision is to use the games as a tool for national cohesion, unity, and youth empowerment.”
He added that the state has intensified efforts to reconstruct, renovate, and reposition key facilities in preparation for the event.
The NSC delegation, led by the Director of Grassroots Sports Development, Amaka Ashiofu, stressed that awarding hosting rights is designed to stimulate sports infrastructure development. She explained that the inspection was aimed at identifying areas requiring upgrades, with the commission pledging to work closely with Lagos State to ensure a smooth process.
Meanwhile, Delta State will host the next edition of the National Youth Games from August 26 to September 6, 2025.
