The race to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games is officially underway, with India and Nigeria emerging as the frontrunners after submitting their formal bids. While Canada was initially expected to contend, they ultimately did not present a bid. This leaves India and Nigeria to compete for the honor of hosting the centenary edition of the Games. A decision is expected in November.
India has positioned Ahmedabad as the host city, emphasizing a commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and a lasting legacy. The Indian delegation officially presented its proposal to Commonwealth Sport in London, led by Gujarat's Sports Minister, Harsh Sanghavi. The proposal outlines a 12-day event to be held in October. According to Sanghavi, the bid reflects India's dedication to delivering a Games that is both sustainable and inclusive. He also noted that submitting the proposal on National Sports Day underscores the nation's sporting heritage and its vision for future generations. India's proposal is also guided by the Commonwealth Sport Reset Principles, prioritizing athletes, full integration of para-sports, gender balance, and a legacy extending beyond 2030.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) views the 2030 Commonwealth Games as a stepping stone towards hosting the 2036 Olympic Games. Successfully hosting the Commonwealth Games would demonstrate India's capabilities, strengthen its international credibility, and lay the foundation for their Olympic aspirations. The federal government has already approved signing the Host Collaboration Agreement and provided necessary guarantees from relevant ministries, solidifying India's ambition to be a leading sporting nation.
Nigeria has also expressed strong interest in hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games, with Abuja as the proposed host city. The Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC) submitted an official expression of interest, marking a preliminary step before a formal bid. A high-level meeting took place in London between officials from the National Sports Commission, the Nigeria Olympic Committee, and the Commonwealth Games Federation to discuss Nigeria's vision and the potential benefits of hosting the Games. Hosting the Commonwealth Games aligns with President Bola Tinubu's reforms, which prioritize major sporting events as a means of national economic and cultural development. The NSC believes the event would contribute to wealth creation across various sectors, including sports, diplomacy, economy, culture, and social development.
Nigeria aims to transform itself into a sporting reference point by hosting the Games. Investment in facilities would revitalize the country's sports economy and leave a lasting infrastructure for future generations. This includes the construction and modernization of venues, transport systems, and accommodation, benefiting both athletes and the general population.
Both India and Nigeria recognize the significance of hosting the Commonwealth Games in achieving their broader sporting ambitions. India sees it as a crucial step toward potentially hosting the 2036 Olympics, while Nigeria views it as an opportunity to establish itself as a global sports power. The Commonwealth Games Federation will evaluate both proposals, considering their alignment with the Games' values of sustainability, inclusivity, and long-term impact. The final decision, expected in November, will determine which nation will have the honor of hosting the centenary edition of this prestigious multi-sport event.
