NSC Sets Up 28-Member Committee for Abuja 2027 African Youth Games

By Arinzechi Nonso

Nigeria has taken a key step towards hosting the 2027 African Youth Games with the inauguration of a 28-member Local Organising Committee (LOC) by the National Sports Commission (NSC).

The committee was unveiled in Abuja on Tuesday by the NSC Chairman, Shehu Dikko, who charged members to deliver what he described as a world-class and athlete-focused Games.

He assured stakeholders, including the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA), of the Federal Government’s full support.

“You have been entrusted with a serious national assignment,” Dikko said, stressing the need for careful planning, transparency and teamwork.

He added that Abuja 2027 would be safe, well organised and memorable for young athletes across the continent.

Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, said hosting the Games aligns with the Commission’s Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria Sports Economy (RHINSE), which aims to use sports as a driver of economic and social development.

He noted that Nigeria is rebuilding its reputation as a capable host of major international sporting events, with positive economic and cultural impact.

Chairman of the LOC, Lekan Abari, described the moment as a new era for Nigerian sports and pledged that the committee would deliver the Games with professionalism and accountability.

The LOC includes Barrister Musa Amadu as Deputy Chairman and Sagaya Abdulmumeen as Secretary, alongside representatives from sports administration, infrastructure, security, media and medical services.

With formal preparations now underway, organisers say the Abuja 2027 African Youth Games are expected to highlight Africa’s rising sporting talents while strengthening Nigeria’s standing as a trusted host for major international competitions.