The National Sports Commission (NSC) has stated the need for the establishment of the National Intermediate Games, a groundbreaking initiative designed to bridge the gap between grassroots development and elite/professional sports level.

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 launchpad for the next generation of such heroes, ensuring Nigeria’s dominance on the global sporting stage.

With this initiative, the NSC stated it 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.