India and Nigeria Vie for 2030 Commonwealth Games Hosting Rights

India and Nigeria are competing to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, with both nations submitting formal bids ahead of the August 31 deadline. The event, which marks the centenary of the Games, is seen as a strategic opportunity to showcase organizational capabilities and boost global sporting credentials.

India has proposed Ahmedabad as its host city, emphasizing its world-class infrastructure, including the Narendra Modi Stadium, and alignment with the Commonwealth Sport “Reset Principles” focused on sustainability, inclusivity, and legacy. The bid, backed by the Indian government and the Indian Olympic Association, aims to position India as a contender for the 2036 Olympics

Nigeria’s bid, led by Abuja, highlights the country’s progress and readiness to host a major international event. The delegation, including officials from the National Sports Commission and the Nigeria Olympic Committee, met with Commonwealth Sport executives in London to discuss objectives and requirements. President Bola Tinubu has expressed support for the bid, which aims to leverage the Games for economic and cultural development.

The host city will be announced in November 2025 at the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow. The decision will consider factors such as infrastructure, financial guarantees, and alignment with the Games’ revised principles, which prioritize cost-effectiveness and legacy .

This competition comes amid challenges for the Commonwealth Games, which have struggled to find hosts in recent years due to escalating costs. The 2026 edition will be a scaled-down event in Glasgow after Victoria, Australia, withdrew.