Nigeria has taken a significant step forward in its bid to host the 15th African Games in 2031, with the arrival of the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Evaluation Team for a crucial inspection visit.

The National Sports Commission (NSC) officially received the delegation, which is tasked with assessing the country's readiness to stage Africa's flagship multi-sport event.

During their visit, the AUSC team will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of key sporting facilities, supporting infrastructure and Nigeria's overall preparedness. The inspection is regarded as a critical phase in the bidding process, as technical experts measure the country against established continental hosting standards.

Nigeria's bid is built on an ambitious and forward-looking vision that goes beyond simply hosting the Games. Authorities say the plan is to leverage the event to drive long-term development, including the expansion of sports infrastructure, increased youth participation and the creation of economic opportunities linked to the sports sector.

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With a track record of successfully hosting major international competitions, alongside ongoing investments in sports development, Nigeria is positioning itself as a strong contender for the 2031 Games.

Officials at the NSC reaffirmed their determination to present a compelling case to the evaluators, highlighting the nation's organisational capacity, technical expertise and readiness to deliver a world-class event.

They stressed that the country's ambition is not only to host a successful African Games, but also to create a lasting legacy that will benefit athletes, communities and the broader sports ecosystem across the continent.

The AUSC team's findings are expected to play a decisive role in determining the eventual host of the 2031 African Games, as Nigeria intensifies its push to secure the prestigious event.