Sanwo-Olu promises excellent National Intermediate Games

Sanwo-Olu (sixth from the right) with NSC DG Olopade (seventh from the left) after the inspection of facilities on Wednesday. Photo: NSC

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reaffirmed the state’s readiness to host the maiden edition of the National Intermediate Games as the Main Organising Committee of the event inspected facilities across the state on Wednesday, The PUNCH reports. The National Intermediate Games, recently introduced by the National Sports Commission, is aimed at strengthening the transition from grassroots to elite sports for emerging athletes, with the inaugural edition scheduled for September. The MOC inspection team was led by the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, who also expressed satisfaction with the state’s level of preparedness. During the tour, the committee inspected the ongoing rehabilitation work at Teslim Balogun Stadium, which is undergoing extensive upgrades, including a new playing surface and improvements to key infrastructure. Contractors handling the project assured the commission that work remains on schedule and that the stadium will be ready for delivery by September 2026. The delegation also inspected the indoor sports hall, basketball facilities and other competition venues expected to host various events during the Games. Governor Sanwo-Olu, who recently approved the appointment of the competition’s Local Organising Committee tasked with delivering a world-class event, highlighted Lagos State’s long-standing record of hosting major sporting events and creating opportunities for young athletes. “We will host the Games in a very excellent way because it reflects the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians and our commitment to youth and sports development. We will host the Games in a manner that will be the envy of stakeholders and custodians of sports across the country,” Sanwo-Olu said. “The National Sports Commission leadership has placed Nigerian sports on the right trajectory. The team is focused, purposeful and committed to results. The working relationship between the Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, and the Director-General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, which has remained rancour-free, is very commendable and inspiring. Related News Lagos court dismisses defilement case over failed witness attendance Lagos backs National Games to develop talent LASG pushes menstrual health as key development priority “We are proud of what they are building, and their vision aligns perfectly with our own aspirations for sports development. “Sports is not magic; it is the product of deliberate