The Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) has disclosed plans to transform Nigerian sport with the inauguration of the Olympafrica Centre in Lagos.
The project combines elite sporting infrastructure with residential development, aimed at fostering long-term athlete development and a sustainable sports ecosystem.
Tony Nezianya, NOC Public Relations Officer, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday the landmark centre is divided into two functional spaces.
“This Olympafrica site serves as both a sports facility and resource centre, situated on about 6.7 hectares in Amuwo Odofin,” he said.
He said the committee had already established structures on the land, positioning it as a hub for training, education and community engagement.
“The land is split, with 40 per cent for residential estates and 60 per cent dedicated to sports facilities.
“Interested investors have bid for portions of the estate land, and construction activities are already underway.
“It is designed as a residential estate where individuals can purchase property and live within a sports-driven environment,” he said.
Nezianya explained that the concept promotes proximity between athletes, coaches and support systems, enhancing training outcomes and lifestyle balance.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the Olympic Residential Estate Project is scheduled for Wednesday.
“For years, the Olympafrica Centre has quietly driven athletic development; it is now stepping into the spotlight.
“This milestone represents a strategic evolution for the NOC, merging sports infrastructure with innovative residential planning,” Nezianya said.
He noted that the initiative aligned with global best practices, where integrated sports communities are increasingly adopted to nurture talent.
“The centrepiece is the Olympic Estate, a residential project embedded directly within the NOC grounds.
“This ‘Live-Train-Play’ model reflects a growing global trend, supporting athletes with access to training facilities and modern living spaces,” he said.
He added that the approach was expected to boost athlete performance, attract investment and elevate Nigeria’s global sporting competitiveness.
The groundbreaking ceremony will hold at the Olympafrica Sports Centre, Alakoso Avenue, Amuwo Odofin Estate, Lagos.
According to him, the venue is a key landmark, located near the Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Church headquarters on the Oshodi–Mile 2 Expressway.
He said the location offered accessibility and visibility, making it suitable for hosting major sporting and community events.
“Existing facilities include a standard football pitch, athletics tracks, volleyball and basketball courts, and a multi-purpose indoor sports hall,” he said.
He added that further upgrades and expansions were planned to meet international standards and accommodate diverse sporting disciplines.