By Benjamin Njoku

Lagos will host the first edition of the Lagos Entertainment Association Games & Awards (LEAGA) in September 2026, bringing together sports, entertainment, culture, and networking in one event.

Endorsed by the Lagos State Government through the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), LEAGA is designed as an annual platform to foster friendship, wellness, unity, and collaboration within the entertainment industry through sports and recreational activities outside the demands of creative work.

The event will bring together musicians, actors, comedians, DJs, media personalities, and other key stakeholders in the creative sector. Competitions will be held for both men and women in football, basketball, athletics, table tennis, tennis, relay races, draughts, Ayo Olopon, dance, and fitness challenges.

Speaking ahead of the event, LSSC Director General Mr. Lekan Fatodu commended the organizers for their contribution to sports development.

“This initiative aligns with Lagos State’s vision of using sports and recreation as tools for youth engagement and social development,” he said. “It’s also an opportunity to create a fresh Lagos lifestyle that blends sports and entertainment.”

LEAGA Lead Convener Muyiwa Osinaike said the project aims to strengthen bonding and healthy interaction across the entertainment, creative, MDA, and business communities in the arts, culture, and creative economy.

“LEAGA is about promoting friendship and bonding through recreation and sport,” Osinaike said. “Our bigger vision is to advance ‘sportainment’ in Lagos, Nigeria, Africa, and globally.”

The inaugural edition will honor icons including Prof. Wole Soyinka, Chief Segun Odegbami, Prof. Lazarus Ekwueme, Pa Bruce Onabrakpeya, and Mrs. Taiwo Ajai-Lycett.

The event will close with a grand Awards and Gala Night celebrating outstanding contributions to the entertainment and creative industries.