(DDM) – A heated dispute is intensifying between Delta State and Lagos State over who will host the 2026 National Youth Games.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that both states are presenting rival claims, leaving the National Sports Commission (NSC) to play the role of arbiter.
The controversy erupted after Lagos Sports Commission Chairman, Olalekan Fatodu, publicly declared that Lagos had been awarded hosting rights.
He promised Lagosians an extraordinary sporting showpiece, citing the city’s global status, entertainment appeal, and urban facilities.
However, NSC boss Bukola Olopade quickly dismissed the claim, describing it as premature and misleading.
Olopade stressed that no state has yet been approved to host the event and that a final announcement would be made on September 7.
Delta State officials insist they had already secured the rights in 2023 after signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Federal Government.
The agreement, they argue, was part of Delta’s reward for its consistent dominance in Nigerian sports.
Delta points to its massive investments, including the construction of a new ultra-modern stadium in Warri.
The government has also expanded hostels, training facilities, and medical centers to accommodate thousands of athletes.
Delta insists these investments prove its readiness to deliver a world-class Games in 2026.
Lagos, on the other hand, maintains that its population size, international connectivity, and entertainment economy give it a stronger claim.
Officials believe Lagos’s hosting will bring commercial benefits, attract sponsors, and strengthen Nigeria’s reputation in youth sports.
Observers note that the battle reflects an old rivalry between Lagos, Nigeria’s economic capital, and Delta, the country’s sports powerhouse.
Delta has hosted multiple national tournaments, including the National Sports Festival in Asaba in 2018.
In 2022, Delta again hosted the Festival, earning praise for its organization and facilities.
The state has also produced leading athletes in track and field, swimming, boxing, and weightlifting.
Many of Nigeria’s Olympic medalists and Commonwealth champions trace their roots to Delta’s grassroots sports programs.
Lagos, however, argues that as Nigeria’s first capital city and international gateway, it deserves more hosting opportunities.
The state last hosted the National Sports Festival in 2012, when it staged the event across multiple venues.
Since then, Lagos has focused on infrastructure upgrades, including the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Mobolaji Johnson Arena, and new sports centers.
Sports analysts warn that this clash could divide stakeholders and affect preparations if not swiftly resolved.
They fear that prolonged disputes will demoralize athletes and frustrate sponsors.
Delta officials warn that stripping them of the rights would amount to political betrayal and discourage future investments.
Some commentators have suggested a compromise, where Lagos hosts the planned National Intermediate Games, while Delta retains the Youth Games.
For now, the nation’s sporting community awaits September 7, when the NSC will deliver its ruling.
The verdict will decide not just the 2026 Games but also the balance of sporting influence between Delta and Lagos.
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