The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced that “Invited Diaspora Athletes” (IDA) will debut at the first National Intermediate Games scheduled to be held in Lagos later this year. The initiative is part of ongoing reforms under the Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria’s Sports Economy.
Director General of the Commission, Bukola Olopade, says the move follows strong interest from Nigerians abroad after the creation of the Diaspora Discovery Athletes Committee, chaired by Tunde Adelakun. About 50 athletes from the diaspora are expected to compete in Lagos.
The Commission says the inclusion of the diaspora team is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s sports development and improving the country’s competitiveness at major international events. Plans are also underway to set up a training camp in Europe to prepare the athletes for the Games and future competitions.
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At the last National Sports Festival in Ogun State, Invited Junior Athletes competed as the 37th state and won medals. This year, the Invited Diaspora Athletes will participate as the 38th state at the Intermediate Games.
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