Eko 2026 to Use NIMC for Age Verification in Sports

The Local Organising Committee (LOC), in collaboration with the Main Organising Committee (MOC), is set to implement the National Identity Management System (NIMS) to combat age cheating at the inaugural National Intermediate Games, Eko 2026, scheduled to take place in Lagos from October 1 to 15. LOC Co-chair Lekan Fatodu stated that the use of technology is essential to ensure that only eligible athletes, aged 15 to 18, participate in the competition.

Fatodu acknowledged past issues with over-aged athletes competing against younger ones, which has hindered genuine talent. NIMS will act as a verification tool, cross-referencing athletes' biodata with national records to eliminate age falsification.

This initiative reflects Lagos' commitment to transparency and integrity in sports administration, aiming to set a new standard for youth competitions in Nigeria. Eko 2026 is positioned to be a pioneering event that combines sports development with digital governance, ensuring both athletic excellence and fairness.