The Abuja 2027 African Youth Games preparations have officially begun following the inauguration of a 28-member Local Organising Committee (LOC) by the National Sports Commission (NSC).
The committee was inaugurated by NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko, who charged members with the responsibility of delivering what he described as the best African Youth Games ever staged on the continent. The inauguration marks a major step in Nigeria’s preparations to host the continental youth sporting event in Abuja in 2027.
Dikko assured the committee of the Commission’s full support while reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to hosting a safe, well-organised, and internationally competitive tournament.
“I congratulate all the LOC members on their appointments, knowing full well that you have been entrusted with a serious national assignment,” Dikko said. “Your work will require planning, coordination, transparency, and teamwork for the desired success to be achieved.”
Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, said hosting the Abuja 2027 African Youth Games aligns with the Commission’s RHINSE (Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria Sports Economy) agenda, which focuses on strengthening Nigeria’s sports economy and international hosting capacity.
“We are gradually returning Nigerian sports to where it rightly belongs on the continent and globally, positioning Nigeria as a viable hub for hosting major international competitions,” Olopade said.
Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Lekan Abari, praised the leadership of the NSC and pledged that the committee would work with dedication and transparency to deliver a successful Games in 2027.
The LOC includes Lekan Abari (Chairman), Bar Musa Amadu (Deputy Chairman), Sagaya Abdulmumeen (Secretary), Dr Ibrahim Abdul, Sabina Chikere, Arc Adamu Tanimu, Olubunmi Ola-Oluode, Dr Lydia Gbagi, Olufunke Florence Olu-Young, Dr Oba Funsho Usman, Chief Victor Onogagamue, Farouk Yarma, Chichi Nwoko, Ebidowei Oweife, Chief Amaka Ashiofu, Olalekan Alabi, Tunde Adeluola, Jude Ayandofu, Lanre Ogunjobi, Aisha Shuaibu, Kola Daniel, Dr Ibrahim Gyaran, Femi Ayorinde, Dr Rabiu Mohammed, Yusuf Adamu, Jahnedu Ibekwelu, Gbadebo Oyebola, and Barr. Friday Agbom.
Nigeria is preparing to host the second edition of the African Youth Games, with Abuja expected to welcome young athletes from across the continent in 2027.
