By Andrew Abah, Abuja
A high-powered Nigerian delegation has arrived in London, United Kingdom for the final phase of the country’s presentation to host the Centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games in 2030.
The delegation is led by the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, and the Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, as the team gets set to make a strong case for Nigeria’s historic bid, which would see the Games come to Africa for the first time.
Mallam Shehu Dikko delivered Nigeria’s initial presentation last month, setting the stage for the decisive round of engagements scheduled for Wednesday.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had since reaffirmed the Federal Government’s full backing of the bid, pledging Nigeria’s readiness to deliver a world-class Games if awarded the hosting rights.
Last week, Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, was among senior government officials who welcomed the Commonwealth Games Bid Evaluation team during their visit to Nigeria, further underscoring the administration’s commitment.
In another reflection of the Federal Government’s commitment, the President’s Special Assistant on Public Communication and Presidential Spokesperson, Hon. Sunday Dare, is part of the delegation to London on Nigeria’s bid.
Also, the delegation includes Bid Coordinator, Mallam Mainasara Ilo; President of the Nigerian Olympic Committee, Engr. Habu Gumel; Honourable Minister of Arts and Culture, Hannatu Musawa; 5-time Olympian and 2-time Commonwelath Games gold medalist, Mary Onyali; and current Para-Badminton world number one player, Eniola Bolaji.
Amongst other values, Nigeria’s bid is built on a vision of inclusivity, legacy and development, with promises to deliver a Games that celebrates the Commonwealth spirit while creating long-lasting opportunities for sport, culture and youth across Africa.
