By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, has urged the Commonwealth Games Federation to award the 2034 Commonwealth Games to Africa, saying the continent deserves the opportunity to host the event for the first time since its inception in 1930.
Speaking during deliberations at the Commonwealth Games Federation General Assembly in Glasgow, Scotland, Dikko called for the adoption of a continental rotation system for hosting rights to ensure fairness and equal representation among member regions.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s unsuccessful bid for the 2030 Games, Dikko said the country’s proposal was widely acknowledged as strong and credible, adding that while India emerged victorious, the focus should now shift to ensuring Africa hosts the 2034 edition.
“We believed the Games should have come to Africa. India won the bid, and we have no hard feelings. We submitted what was acknowledged by the Commonwealth Games President as a robust and compelling proposal, but we must now look ahead,” Dikko said.
He urged delegates to support Africa’s bid for the 2034 Games, citing FIFA’s continental rotation model for the World Cup as a proven example of equitable hosting.
“We believe a decision should be taken at this meeting that Africa should host the 2034 Commonwealth Games. FIFA adopted continental rotation when faced with similar challenges, and what we are proposing aligns with global best practice,” he said.
Dikko also called for reforms to the Commonwealth Games programme, advocating the inclusion of football and the expansion of other popular sports to boost the event’s competitiveness, commercial value and global appeal.
He stressed that strengthening traditional Commonwealth sports such as hockey while introducing additional disciplines would help reposition the Games and attract greater participation and interest from athletes and fans worldwide.
