The National Sports Commission (NSC) has confirmed that Nigeria will take part in the maiden edition of the African School Games, scheduled to hold from July 26 to August 5, 2025, in Algeria.
Organised by the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA), the landmark event aims to revolutionise youth sports development across the continent, providing a unique platform for talent discovery, grassroots engagement, and the promotion of Olympic values.
Speaking on the development, the Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, described Nigeria’s participation as a major step in nurturing the country’s school-age athletes on a continental stage.
“This is a milestone opportunity for Nigeria to showcase and nurture its school-age sporting talents on a continental stage,” Olopade stated. “We are working closely with the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), school authorities, and parents to ensure the successful preparation and representation of Team Nigeria.”
Nigeria will compete in 10 disciplines at the Games, including athletics, badminton, basketball, beach volleyball, canoeing, football, swimming, table tennis, cycling, and taekwondo. The official arrival of participating countries and Chefs de Mission is scheduled for July 23, 2025, when the Games Village will also be officially opened.
In line with the event’s regulations, all athletes representing Nigeria must present valid school certificates.
Additionally, the NSC and NOC will collaborate with parents and guardians to secure parental consent for all underage athletes participating in the competition.
Olopade also tied the development to the broader agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to revitalise the Nigerian sports sector through youth engagement and sports-driven economic growth.
“This is a breath of fresh air for the NSC, as young people are beginning to benefit from the sports economy we are building. Since assuming office, 21 sports federations have represented Nigeria internationally,” he noted.
“We are focused on inclusive development, giving equal attention to all sports, engaging the youth, and empowering the future of Nigerian sports.”
The African School Games marks the first event of its kind on the continent, with a mission to inspire excellence, solidarity, and fraternity among Africa’s youth through the spirit of Olympism.
The NSC reiterated its commitment to using international sporting platforms to empower young Nigerians, develop talent at the grassroots, and produce a new generation of national champions.