Table of Contents
- Nigeria 2030 Commonwealth Games bid is well on course
- The Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC) says that it beat the March 28, 2025 deadline for their declaration of interest to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030
- The country’s Olympic committee requires strong backing by the government to start a formal bid
Nigeria 2030 Commonwealth Games bid is well on course with the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC) doing the most.
NOC says that it beat the March 28, 2025 deadline for their declaration of interest to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030.
Now, the country’s Olympic committee requires strong backing by the government to start a formal bid to host the games.
About Nigeria 2030 Commonwealth Games Bid
Tony Nezianya, the NOC spokesperson, said Nigeria plans to host the games in its capital, Abuja. Nezianya is optimistic that winning this bid will elevate the country and showcase its sports culture.
If all goes well for the Nigeria 2030 Commonwealth Games, Nezianya is hopeful that this opportunity will show the world what Abuja has to offer beyond sports.
“That experience will provide a solid foundation for Nigeria to host again, showcasing its ability to manage the logistics, hospitality, and infrastructure development required by such events,” a statement by NOC read as per AFP through Citizen Digital.
The 2022 Commonwealth Games opening ceremony in Birmingham. Photo/Commonwealth Sport
Glasgow, Scotland, will host the 2026 Commonwealth Games starting March 17 to March 29. Initially, the Australian state Victoria was expected to host the games, but they withdrew, citing a high cost in planning and hosting.
What a Country Needs to Host Commonwealth Games
A country seeking to host the Commonwealth Games must plan meticulously, have proper sporting infrastructure and enough accommodation for spectators, athletes and officials.
The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) expects all bidding countries to demonstrate that they meet the following seven demands.
1. Infrastructure
A host country should have modern venues suitable for all sports activities, which include stadiums together with aquatic centers and athlete villages. Existing facilities must meet the set international standards. For example, the Birmingham 2022 event transformed athletic venues by renovating the Alexander Stadium and managed gymnasium activities at the NEC Arena, which helped reduce expenses. Delhi 2010 gained negative attention because it delivered poor-quality infrastructure alongside rushed construction projects.
2. Accommodation and Transport
As Nigeria 2030 Commonwealth Games bid continues, Abuja must demonstrate that it has adequate accommodation for over 6,000 people. The 2002 Commonwealth Games held in Manchester saw university dormitories converted to ‘housing villages.’ Further, the government must work to alleviate traffic jams in the city.
3. Financial Strength
Nigeria needs at least $2 billion to host the Commonwealth games. This budget caters for operations and venues. Governments fund this budget through sponsors.
4. Security
Safety plans must be strong to combat both terrorism and public security threats. Hiring of 100,000 personnel became necessary for the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi. With Boko Haram in Nigeria, extra security measures are paramount.
5. Positive Social Impact
Glasgow hosted the 2014 Commonwealth Games and will host again in 2026 following the withdrawal of Australian State of Victoria which was to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games. Photo/Sportcal
The Commonwealth Games Federation directs its attention to enhance both social and environmental impact considerations. During Glasgow 2014, the organizers focused on using renewable energy, and they successfully engaged the community after the Games operations and redirected event locations into new uses.
6. Political and Public Support
Volunteers and smooth operational processes are guaranteed when local communities actively support the Games. A case study is the 2002 games held in Manchester where support by the political class and the public bolstered its tourism economy.
7. Cultural Diversity
The Games celebrate Commonwealth diversity. Opening ceremonies need to present national heritage through cultural means such as dance and historical narratives for the unification of all participating nations.
