Nigeria’s 2030 Commonwealth Games bid dashed as India wins hosting rights
Nigeria’s hopes of hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games have been dashed after Ahmedabad, India, was recommended as the host city ahead of Abuja, following a competitive bidding process.
Commonwealth Sport announced the decision, revealing that the Indian city was chosen as the preferred host for the centenary edition of the Games, a milestone marking 100 years since the event’s inception.
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Despite strong lobbying from Nigeria’s delegation and support from several African Commonwealth nations, the evaluation commission concluded that Ahmedabad offered “the most comprehensive and deliverable plan” for the Games.
The recommendation, made by an evaluation commission of the governing body, will be formally ratified at the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow on November 26. Once approved, it will make India the host of the prestigious multi-sport event for the second time in 20 years, following Delhi’s successful staging in 2010.
Ahmedabad Chosen Ahead of Abuja
Located in western India, Ahmedabad was selected over Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, based on its superior infrastructure, logistical readiness, and experience in hosting major international sporting events.
The city, home to more than five million residents, boasts world-class sports facilities, including the Narendra Modi Stadium, the world’s largest sports arena with a 132,000 capacity, which hosted the 2023 Cricket World Cup final.
India Celebrates, Nigeria Reflects
In a statement, Dr. P. T. Usha, President of the Commonwealth Games Association of India, described the selection as “a historic opportunity” for Indian sport.
“We see the 2030 Games as a powerful opportunity to inspire our youth, strengthen international partnerships, and build a shared future across the Commonwealth,” Usha said.
For Nigeria, the decision marks a setback after years of preparation and investment in its bid to bring the Games to Africa for the first time.
Abuja’s proposal had highlighted Africa’s absence from the event’s hosting history and promised to deliver a Games that would showcase the continent’s growing sporting and economic potential.
