Nigeria to participate in maiden African School Games in Algeria

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has confirmed Nigeria’s participation in the inaugural African School Games, scheduled to take place from July 26 to August 5, 2025, in Algeria.

Organised by the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA), the championship is the first of its kind on the continent, aiming to redefine youth sports development and promote integration among African school children.

NSC Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, described the event as a milestone opportunity for Nigeria to showcase and nurture its school-age talents. “We are working closely with the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), school authorities, and parents to ensure successful preparation and representation of Team Nigeria,” he said.

Team Nigeria will compete in 10 disciplines: athletics, badminton, basketball, beach volleyball, canoeing, football, swimming, table tennis, cycling, and taekwondo. Participants, including Chefs de Mission, are expected to arrive by July 23, when the Games Village officially opens.

Speaking on Nigeria’s renewed focus on youth sports, Olopade noted that the NSC is actively building a sports economy in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s mandate. “Since we assumed office, 21 federations have competed internationally. We’re giving equal attention to all sports and engaging youth across the country,” he stated.

To ensure compliance with competition regulations, all athletes will be required to present valid school certificates. The NSC and NOC will also coordinate with parents to secure necessary authorizations for minors.

The African School Games is designed to provide a platform for talent identification, grassroots development, and youth exchange while promoting the Olympic values of excellence, solidarity, and fraternity.

The NSC reaffirmed its commitment to using sports as a tool for youth empowerment and international exposure, with the goal of inspiring a new generation of Nigerian champions.