The National Intermediate Games, EKO 2026, is a national multi-sport competition designed for athletes aged 15 to 18. The Games bridge an important space between early sporting participation and higher levels of national competition. Athletes represent their states, compete across approved sporting disciplines, and gain experience within a structured national Games environment.
Hosted by Lagos State in partnership with the National Sports Commission, EKO 2026 brings together young athletes from across Nigeria for an experience built around competition, opportunity, friendship, and the pursuit of sporting excellence.
From athletics and swimming to team sports, combat sports, racket sports, and precision events, EKO 2026 showcases a broad programme of competition designed to challenge, inspire, and develop the next generation of sporting excellence.
For some, EKO 2026 will be their first national competition, while for others, it will be the next important step in an already promising journey. For Nigerian sport, it is an opportunity to see the future taking shape.
EKO 2026 will be remembered as where Nigeria’s next generation of Olympians, world champions, and sporting icons began their journey.
To become Nigeria’s defining platform for emerging sporting talent and a pathway to national and international excellence.
To deliver an inclusive and professionally organised national Games that gives emerging athletes the opportunity to compete, grow, and advance in sport.
The pursuit of high standards in competition, preparation, service, and Games delivery.
Creating a national stage where young athletes can demonstrate their ability and pursue the next step in their sporting journey.
Honouring fellow athletes, officials, coaches, volunteers, supporters, and the spirit of competition.
Fair competition, responsible conduct, and respect for the rules that protect the credibility of sport.
Recognising talent and participation across Nigeria while creating an environment where every eligible athlete is treated with dignity and respect.
Bringing young Nigerians together through shared experiences, healthy competition, and the pride of representing their states.
The maiden NIG EKO 2026 is our commitment to giving young Nigerians the stage, support, and opportunity to turn sporting promise into a future of excellence.
Babajide Sanwo-Olu
When we invest in young people and create pathways for their talents to flourish, we secure a greater future for Nigeria. That is the very essence of NIG EKO 2026.
Kadri Obafemi Hamzat
The future of Nigerian sport depends on the pathways we build today. The National Intermediate Games gives emerging athletes a stage to compete and progress.
Shehu Dikko
Talent must meet opportunity at the right time. The National Intermediate Games create that defining moment for Nigeria’s emerging athletes to be seen, tested, and inspired.
Bukola Olopade
Our responsibility is to deliver a Games worthy of every young athlete’s ambition, one that leaves lasting memories and a stronger pathway for sporting excellence.
Sam Egube
Every young person deserves the opportunity to discover what is possible. Through sport, EKO 2026 creates room for confidence, character, and ambition to grow.
Mobolaji Ogunlende
NIG EKO 2026 bridges the space between potential and performance, giving emerging athletes the competition, exposure, and experience needed to take their next step.
Lekan Fatodu
