In order to establish a nexus between teen athletes sourced from the National Youth Games and the senior teams, the National Sports Commission (NSC), yesterday, announced that it would hold the first Intermediate Games in 2026.
 
The Guardian had on Thursday analysed the need for an intermediate competition to give athletes discovered at the U-15 National Youth Games a pathway to the various national teams.
 
The NSC seems to agree, describing the initiative as a groundbreaking one designed to bridge the gap between grassroots development and elite/professional sports levels.
 
In a statement signed by NSC Director of Press, Mrs Kehide Ajayi, the body said the Intermediate Games will focus on athletes aged 16 to 18, providing them with a competitive platform that complements existing national events.
 
“While the National Youth Games currently cater to athletes under the age of 15, and the National Sports Festival serves elite athletes without age restrictions, there has long been a vacuum for budding talents who fall between these categories.
 
“The Intermediate Games is poised to fill this critical gap, ensuring a seamless transition for young athletes on their journey to professional and international success.
 
“Nigeria’s grassroots system has consistently produced world-class athletes. From the Golden Eaglets’ record five FIFA U-17 World Cup triumphs since their first victory in China in 1985, to the Nigerian female junior basketball team’s strong showing at the FIBA World Championship in the Czech Republic, the nation’s youth have consistently demonstrated extraordinary potential.”
 
“The Intermediate Games will harness this potential further, preparing athletes for international competitions such as U-18 and U-20 tournaments, while nurturing future elite and professional stars.”

Notable sports icons, including Gabriel Okon, Deji Aliu, Olusoji Fasuba, Nduka Ugbade, John Obi Mikel, Rashidat Ajibade, and Victor Osimhen, are shining examples of talents who emerged from the grassroots to become global champions. The National Intermediate Games will serve as a launch pad for the next generation of such heroes, ensuring Nigeria’s dominance on the global sporting stage.
 
“With this initiative, the NSC is deliberate about its commitment to talent development, sports excellence, and the vision of nurturing athletes who will continue to bring glory to the nation,” Ajayi stated.
 
Even though the press statement did not state when the maiden games would be held, the Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, told The Guardian in a telephone chat that they would be held in 2026.
 
No venue has been named for the first edition, but an insider in the NSC hinted that it might be held in Lagos.