The Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, has expressed confidence in Lagos State’s readiness to host the inaugural National Intermediate Games, EKO 2026, describing the event as a platform to showcase Nigeria’s sporting potential.

Speaking at a joint technical meeting ahead of the Games, Mr Olopade commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Lagos State Government for their commitment to sports development and youth empowerment.

“When you look at the build-up to the first National Intermediate Games, you cannot but marvel at the leadership that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has given to sports in this country,” Mr Olopade said.

He cited the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon as an example of the governor’s support for sporting events, noting that the race was retained and upgraded under Sanwo-Olu’s administration.

Mr Olopade also emphasised the importance of discovering young talents through initiatives targeting secondary school athletes, recalling performances he witnessed at competitions in Asaba and Abeokuta.