The National Sports Commission (NSC) has officially announced Lagos State as the host of the maiden edition of the National Intermediate Games, scheduled for 2026.
The groundbreaking initiative, described as one of the RHINSE programs of the NSC, is designed to identify, monitor, and nurture Nigeria’s emerging sporting talents between the ages of 16 and 19, creating a seamless transition from grassroots to elite sports.
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Speaking at the announcement, the Chairman of the NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, emphasized the importance of establishing a structured talent development model that would ensure sustained success for Nigeria at international competitions.
“As a country, we must have a proper grassroots model for the discovery of budding talents, which will provide an organic pathway system to the elite cadre,” Dikko stated.
“We are determined to achieve sustainable podium success at global events, but this will only come through the right structures — and the Intermediate Games are central to that vision.”
Dikko further highlighted that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to deepen grassroots sports development across Nigeria, adding that the program would serve as the foundation for long-term sporting excellence.
Also speaking, the NSC’s Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, described the National Intermediate Games as a deliberate step toward resolving age-grade challenges that have hindered the nation’s grassroots sports system.
“With the National Youth Games and the National Sports Festival already well established, the Intermediate Games will bridge the gap,” Olopade said. “It will provide clarity in our grassroots development strategy and ensure that young athletes are better prepared before transitioning to the elite level.”
Olopade expressed excitement over Lagos State’s commitment to hosting the historic first edition, noting that the event will mark a significant milestone in Nigeria’s sporting journey.
“We are thrilled that Lagos has graciously agreed to host this inaugural edition. It will undoubtedly stand as a major chapter in the illustrious history of Nigerian sports,” he added.
The National Intermediate Games are expected to feature a range of sports disciplines, offering young athletes a national platform to showcase their potential while reinforcing Nigeria’s long-term vision for structured and sustainable sports development.
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