Organisers of the inaugural National Intermediate Games, tagged EKO 2026, have officially unveiled the tournament’s logo and mascot as preparations intensify for the youth sports festival scheduled to hold in Lagos from October 1 to 15, 2026.

The unveiling ceremony took place at the Marriott Hotel in Ikeja and was attended by officials of the National Sports Commission (NSC), the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), members of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), and other stakeholders in the sports sector.

The organisers said the unveiling marks a significant milestone in preparations for the competition, which is expected to bring together young athletes from across Nigeria.

The official logo draws inspiration from Lagos’ cultural heritage, incorporating the iconic Eyo cap, the Opambata ceremonial staff, colourful design elements symbolising movement, and three ascending stars representing growth and athletic excellence.

The tournament’s mascot, named “Lasgidi” after the popular nickname for Lagos, was also unveiled as the official symbol of the games. Organisers said the mascot reflects the resilience, energy and vibrant spirit associated with the host city.

Speaking at the event, Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, said Lagos was selected to host the maiden edition because of its structured and consistent investment in grassroots sports development.

According to him, the state has established a system that identifies and nurtures sporting talents from the primary school level through secondary school and into elite competition.

Olopade also announced that the commission will hold diaspora trials in London on July 17, 2026, to enable eligible young Nigerian athletes living abroad to qualify for the games. Successful participants will compete alongside athletes representing the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

On infrastructure, Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, assured stakeholders that renovation works at major sporting facilities are progressing as scheduled.

He said extensive rehabilitation is ongoing at the Teslim Balogun Stadium and expressed confidence that contractors would meet the completion deadline before the games begin.

Fatodu added that the organisers have also partnered with private institutions, including the British International School in Lekki, to provide additional venues capable of hosting various sporting events during the competition.

Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Sam Egube, commended members of the various planning committees for their efforts and urged all stakeholders to work together to deliver a successful inaugural edition.

The EKO 2026 National Intermediate Games are expected to feature more than 13,000 young athletes competing in multiple sporting events across venues in Lagos, with organisers hoping the competition will become a major platform for discovering and developing future Nigerian sporting talents.