The Lagos State Government has postponed the hosting of the maiden edition of the National Intermediate Games from October to the first quarter of 2027 to allow more time for preparations and ensure a world-class event.
The decision was formally communicated to the National Sports Commission (NSC) following a comprehensive review of preparations by the Local Organising Committee (LOC), the NSC and an independent Quality Control and Assurance Specialist.
Kola Daniel, Special Assistant, Media, Office of the Director-General, National Sports Commission, disclosed this in a statement shared on the Lagos State Government’s verified social media handle on Wednesday, saying the review followed the Joint Technical Meeting held from September 3 to 6, 2026.
According to him, the assessment covered the proposed facilities, sporting events, technical requirements, rules and regulations, as well as other critical operational areas.
He said while the review established that the Games could technically proceed as scheduled, it also determined that the remaining timeframe might not be sufficient to deliver the inaugural edition to the standard befitting Lagos and an event of national significance.
Daniel said the postponement was intended to safeguard the quality, credibility and long-term success of the National Intermediate Games, which is expected to establish an operational benchmark for future editions.
He said Lagos State had reaffirmed its commitment to hosting the Games and would continue preparations in collaboration with the National Sports Commission and other stakeholders pending the finalisation of a new date by the LOC.
“The postponement is intended to safeguard the quality, credibility and long-term success of the National Intermediate Games,” Daniel said.
He added that the National Sports Commission would continue its programme towards the Games as previously planned, including accreditation, zonal elimination for team sports and other technical and operational activities within its immediate purview.
Daniel said the postponement would provide the organisers with additional time to address outstanding preparations and ensure that the maiden edition was delivered to the expected standard.
The National Intermediate Games were initially scheduled to take place in Lagos from October 1 to 15, 2026.
