Eko 2026: LOC Seeks Stronger Support For Maiden National Intermediate Games

The Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the maiden National Intermediate Games, Eko 2026, has called for robust media support to ensure the successful staging and effective promotion of the youth sports event in Lagos.

The Games are scheduled to be held from October 1 to 15, with more than 15,000 athletes expected to compete in 28 sports across 10 venues in the state.

Speaking at a media parley in Lagos, the Chairman of the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee of the LOC and Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, described the media as an important partner in the delivery of the Games and in shaping public perception of them.

“We are aware of the power of the media and the significant role it has played in putting Lagos on the world map,” Omotoso said, describing journalists, editors and broadcasters as “formidable partners in progress”.

He said sustained media coverage would be crucial to showcasing the talents participating in Eko 2026 while also keeping the public informed about preparations for the Games.

Omotoso assured journalists that the LOC would maintain an open channel of communication and provide access to relevant information throughout the event.

“We want you to be our eyes. We welcome your criticisms when you see that we are doing it right, and we are ready to make amends based on your recommendations,” he said.

The commissioner said constructive criticism would help the organisers identify shortcomings and improve the Games, stressing that transparency and accountability remained important to the LOC.

He also highlighted Lagos’ history of hosting major sporting events, recalling the state’s role in staging the maiden National Sports Festival in 1973 and the 2012 edition, which he described as one of the best-organised.

According to Omotoso, Lagos intends to build on that experience by delivering Eko 2026 to a high standard and establishing a strong foundation for the development of young athletes.

With thousands of athletes expected to participate, the Games are expected to provide a platform for identifying and nurturing emerging sporting talents across the country.

The LOC therefore urged the media to go beyond reporting results and also highlight the performances, experiences and development of the young athletes participating in the Games.

The committee said effective media coverage would help promote the competition while ensuring that organisers remain accountable to athletes, officials and the wider public.