By Peter Omopo
India has been selected to host the 2030 Centenary Commonwealth Games, with the city of Amdavad (Ahmedabad) in Gujarat edging out Nigeria’s Abuja after a closely contested bidding process.
The decision was announced on Wednesday by the Executive Board of Commonwealth Sport, which described Amdavad’s winning proposal as “a landmark moment” for the Commonwealth Movement as it prepares to celebrate 100 years since the inaugural Games in Hamilton, Canada, in 1930.
The recommendation will be presented for final ratification by the full Commonwealth Sport membership during its General Assembly in Glasgow on November 26, 2025.
“Both India and Nigeria presented inspiring proposals that captured the scale of opportunity within our Commonwealth family,” said Dr. Donald Rukare, Interim President of Commonwealth Sport. “After careful consideration, the Board is recommending Amdavad as host for the Centenary Games — a decision that marks a significant milestone as we look to the next century of Commonwealth sport.”
Historic Win for India
Located in western India, Amdavad will become the first Indian city to host the Commonwealth Games in over 20 years, following New Delhi’s 2010 edition.
The city’s bid was built on themes of innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity, pledging to deliver a Games that reflects India’s rapid development and youthful vibrancy.
President of the Commonwealth Games Association of India, Dr. P. T. Usha, described the win as “an extraordinary honour” for the nation.
“The Games would not only showcase India’s world-class sporting and event capabilities but also play a meaningful role in our national journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047,” Usha said. “We see the 2030 Games as a powerful opportunity to inspire our youth, strengthen international partnerships, and build a shared future across the Commonwealth.”
Nigeria Eyes 2034 Edition
Although Nigeria missed out on hosting rights, its Abuja 2030 bid received widespread commendation for its ambition and detailed planning.
Commonwealth Sport officials confirmed ongoing discussions with Nigerian authorities to position the country for a future hosting opportunity, potentially the 2034 Commonwealth Games.
“The Board was deeply impressed by Nigeria’s vision and ambition,” said Rukare. “We are committed to continuing our collaboration with Nigeria to bring the Commonwealth Games to Africa.”
Nigeria’s Minister of Sports, Shehu Dikko, expressed pride in the country’s performance despite the outcome.
“While we are disappointed not to have been recommended for 2030, our proposal reflected a national consensus that sport must drive economic growth and unity,” Dikko said. “We will build on this foundation as we prepare to host the 2027 Africa Youth Games and 2031 Africa Games.”
A New Era for the Commonwealth Games
The 2030 Centenary Games will follow the 2026 edition in Glasgow, which organisers say will usher in a revitalised era for the Commonwealth sporting community.
According to Katie Sadleir CNZM, Chief Executive Officer of Commonwealth Sport, the selection of Amdavad represents “a strategic step forward” for the Games’ future.
“The Centenary Games provide a unique opportunity not just to celebrate 100 years of history but to demonstrate how the Commonwealth Games can evolve — delivering lasting impact for athletes, communities, and nations,” Sadleir said.
If approved in November, Amdavad’s hosting will mark a defining moment for India — and for the Commonwealth — as the global sporting event heads into its next century.
