Former Nigerian Olympian, Yusuf Alli, has stated that the maiden National Intermediate Games, branded EKO 2026, will serve as a litmus test for states genuinely investing in grassroots athlete development versus those relying on recruiting established talents to boost medal counts.

The NSC boss added that the foundation being laid should ensure the Intermediate Games evolve into a national sporting platform beyond the inaugural edition

Yusuf Alli states EKO 2026 will reveal states genuinely developing grassroots athletes versus those poaching talent, focusing on youth sports development.