Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu says the inaugural National Intermediate Games, EKO 2026, will provide a platform to discover, develop, and retain young sporting talents in Nigeria.
The Games, scheduled for October 1–15, 2026, are expected to attract between 14,000 and 15,000 athletes and strengthen grassroots sports development across the country.
Sanwo-Olu stated this during an inspection of rehabilitation works at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, one of the major venues for the Games.
He said Lagos accepted the hosting rights after the National Sports Commission selected the state for the maiden edition, describing the event as an opportunity to create a sustainable pathway for young athletes to progress to the elite level.
According to the governor, the state’s investment in sports infrastructure is part of a broader strategy to improve grassroots sports development, with facilities upgraded in Surulere, Ifako, Bariga, Ikorodu, Epe, Agege and Badagry.
At Teslim Balogun Stadium, Sanwo-Olu inspected the football and athletics arenas, indoor sports hall, volleyball court, and swimming pool.
He disclosed that the main bowl was undergoing extensive reconstruction, with the football pitch upgraded to FIFA standards and natural grass already installed. He added that the tartan track would be completed within four to six weeks, while renovation of the swimming pool and other facilities would be concluded ahead of the Games.
Sanwo-Olu expressed confidence that all venues would be ready before October, stressing that EKO 2026 would go beyond sporting competition by establishing a stronger system for identifying and nurturing athletes capable of representing Nigeria at national and international competitions.
