Leading public relations expert and founder of Emiralty Africa, Idris Olakunle Bello, has been appointed to the Digital Media and Fans Engagement Sub-Committee for the inaugural National Intermediate Games, tagged EKO 2026, by the Lagos State Government.
The appointment, approved by the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is part of the state’s preparations for the maiden edition of the National Intermediate Games, a competition designed to bridge the gap between grassroots sports and elite national competition.
Bello’s appointment was conveyed in an official letter dated June 25 and signed by the Secretary-General of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Deji Aladegbemi. He will serve on the committee responsible for shaping the tournament’s digital media strategy and driving fan engagement before and during the games.
Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s leading communications strategists, Bello has built a reputation for media curation, brand storytelling and creative consulting through Emiralty Africa. His expertise in digital campaigns and audience engagement is expected to play a key role in promoting EKO 2026 and connecting the tournament with sports enthusiasts, particularly young Nigerians.
His selection follows the successful hosting of the Scar to Shine Conference in May 2026 at the Radisson Blu, Ikeja, where he brought together influential figures from business, government and the creative industry. The event further reinforced his reputation for delivering impactful public engagement and high-profile industry conversations.
The National Intermediate Games is a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at creating a structured pathway for emerging athletes from the country’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to compete at a high level before progressing to elite competitions.
As host of the inaugural edition, Lagos State is expected to set the standard for future editions, with organisers targeting a memorable tournament that will become a permanent fixture on Nigeria’s sporting calendar.
With Bello now entrusted to spearhead digital media and fan engagement, stakeholders believe EKO 2026 is well positioned to attract widespread public interest, amplify athletes’ stories and establish a strong national and international digital presence.