Over 360 athletes and officials from the six Southwestern states of Nigeria will gather in Lagos for the inaugural edition of the Southwest Games, officially named the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Southwest Alliance Games.
The highly anticipated multi-sports event is set to take place from March 25 to March 28, 2025.
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The announcement was made by Mrs. Funmilola Adedipe, Managing Director of Practogali Partners and convener of the Games, during a strategic meeting held at the Colossus Conference Centre, Ikeja, with General Managers of sports from the six states in attendance.
This first-of-its-kind competition aims to empower young athletes, foster regional unity, and nurture sporting talent among U-18 athletes in the Southwest. The tournament is also scheduled to coincide with the birthday celebration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The event has received official endorsement from the National Sports Commission (NSC), which is providing technical support, while the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) will serve as the host and provide logistical backing to ensure a successful tournament.
Sports Categories and Screening Process
Speaking at the meeting, Victor Ganzallo, Director of Media for the Games, revealed that the competition will feature football, basketball, table tennis, boxing, and athletics, with volleyball added due to overwhelming stakeholder interest.
To ensure fairness, all athletes will undergo a screening process, including physical verification. Participants are required to present their National Identification Number (NIN) certificates and other valid documents before competing.
Grand Finale & Awards
The three-day tournament will culminate in a grand closing ceremony at the Mobolaji Johnson Sports Arena, Onikan, Lagos, on March 28, 2025. The event will attract top sports icons, national and international athletes, sports administrators, political figures, and key stakeholders in the sports industry.
Awards will be presented to the top three states, with trophies for first, second, and third place winners. Additionally, individual athletes will receive gold, silver, and bronze medals, while all participants will be awarded certificates of participation in recognition of their efforts.
The Southwest Games is poised to become a platform for talent discovery, sports excellence, and youth empowerment in the region.
