Nigeria has formally submitted its bid to the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) to host the 2031 African Games, marking the first time the country has sought to host the continent’s premier multi-sport event since Abuja 2003.
The Nigeria Sports Commission confirmed on Friday that the bid was presented during high-level meetings with the AUSC, where officials emphasized Nigeria’s readiness, infrastructure, and experience in hosting major international competitions.
The presentation was led by renowned sports broadcaster and administrator Mainasara Ilo, who highlighted Nigeria’s technical expertise, organisational capacity, and commitment to staging a modern, inclusive, and impactful African Games.
Nigeria’s bid is bolstered by its recent record of successfully hosting continental and regional sporting events, including the CAA Africa U18 and U20 Athletics Championships, Africa Karate Championship, ITTF Africa Youth Table Tennis Championship, African Armwrestling Championship, Badminton National Open, West Africa Para Games, and the African Cadet and Junior Taekwondo Championship.
The economic impact of these events has been significant. The CAA U18 and U20 Africa Athletics Championships alone boosted more than 5,000 small and medium enterprises through increased commercial activity in host cities.
Similarly, the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, now a World Athletics Gold Label race, has grown into one of Africa’s most prominent road races, attracting elite athletes worldwide, promoting tourism, and enhancing Nigeria’s global sporting reputation.
Nigeria further strengthened its credentials in 2024 by hosting the Africa Military Games, which fostered regional cooperation, enhanced diplomatic ties, and elevated the country’s soft power across the continent.
The West Africa Para Games and related events have also delivered lasting benefits, creating hundreds of direct jobs and supporting thousands more indirectly across hospitality, transport, tourism, security, merchandising, and event services.
This bid positions Nigeria as a strong contender to once again host Africa’s largest multi-sport showcase, demonstrating both readiness and a proven track record in organising world-class sporting events.
