Five countries competed in Lagos at Zen Archery International Open

Five countries competed in Lagos this week at the 2026 Zen Archery Lagos International Open Tournament, continuing to establish the event as a prominent fixture in West Africa’s sporting calendar. The tournament, organized by Zen Archery Club in partnership with the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), ran from 18 to 21 June at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan.

In its third year, the competition saw its international reach expand from two countries in 2025 to five in 2026, marking a significant growth in participation. Initially launched as Nigeria’s first international open archery event, the tournament has steadily evolved from approximately 100 athletes representing 16 clubs to a continental platform promoting competition and collaboration.

Aderonke Aderinoye, chairman of the Local Organising Committee, reflected on the increase in participant countries, emphasizing the potential of African archery nations working together. "Every edition of this tournament has been a statement about what is possible when African archery nations choose to compete together rather than apart," she stated.

Emmanuel Oyeleke, the founder of Zen Archery, highlighted that the event had transcended mere competition. "What we are building in Lagos is bigger than a competition; it is a platform for talent discovery, youth development, and proof that Nigeria can host world-class sport on its own soil."

The Lagos State Sports Commission endorsed the tournament as a key element of its sports development strategy, focusing on youth engagement and talent identification. Director-General Lekan Fatodu remarked, "The power of sports like archery in providing physical stability, mental growth, focus and discipline for young people is remarkable," underscoring its value beyond mere physical competition. Fatodu emphasized that archery should be included in discussions on sports development alongside football and boxing, acknowledging its ability to impart life skills to young participants.

Ikpo noted that the tournament also contributed to enhancing Lagos’ reputation for sports tourism. Athletes from various countries, many visiting Lagos for the first time, were seen as ambassadors for the state upon their return. Additionally, the economic benefits for small traders and service providers surrounding such events were highlighted, forming a value chain that supports local enterprise.

For the second consecutive year, the Mobolaji Johnson Arena served as the venue, with its 10,000-capacity providing a fitting backdrop for a wide range of events, including Recurve, Compound, and Barebow divisions for both sexes, as well as Under-18 categories. Participating athletes competed as individuals or club representatives rather than under national colors, allowing clubs to register multiple participants to encourage broader participation and grassroots development.

The 2025 edition significantly raised the profile of archery in Nigeria, attracting international attention and the presence of Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who participated in a demonstration. Building on this momentum, the organisers aimed to further position Lagos as a hub for African archery, with plans to explore athlete exchange programs and training partnerships with the participating countries.