By Andrew Abah
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to deliver a landmark sporting spectacle as the National Sports Commission (NSC) officially inaugurated the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the African Youth Games, Abuja 2027.
Hon. Adeboye was in attendance as the 28-member LOC was inaugurated by the Chairman of the NSC, National Sports Commission Chairman Shehu Dikko, who charged the committee with the responsibility of organising what he described as the best African Youth Games ever staged on the continent.
Speaking on the sidelines of the ceremony, Adeboye described the inauguration as a defining step towards repositioning Nigeria as a continental hub for youth sports and talent development.
“This is not just about hosting games; it is about building pathways for African youth, strengthening grassroots structures, and showcasing Nigeria’s organisational capacity to the world,” Adeboye said. “Abuja 2027 aligns perfectly with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President, especially in using sports as a tool for youth empowerment, unity, and economic growth.”
The SSA commended the leadership of the NSC, noting that the confidence shown by African stakeholders reflects Nigeria’s growing credibility in hosting international sporting events.
Earlier, NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko assured stakeholders of the Federal Government’s full backing, stressing that Abuja 2027 would be safe, transparent, and memorable. He emphasised planning, teamwork, and accountability as key pillars for success.
The Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, added that hosting the African Youth Games fits squarely into the Commission’s RHINSE agenda, which prioritises sports production, youth development, and economic impact through sports.
Chairman of the LOC, Lekan Abari, pledged that the committee would work diligently to justify the confidence reposed in them and deliver a Games that will set new standards for youth sports in Africa.
Hon. Adeboye concluded by calling on all stakeholders—government agencies, private sector partners, and sports federations—to rally behind the LOC, stating that Abuja 2027 represents “a shared African project with Nigerian leadership at its heart.”