The 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, initially scheduled for January 2025, has now been rescheduled to take place from 16th to 30th May 2025. This announcement was made by the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Abuja, Hon. Adebukola Olopade, during the Joint Technical Meeting and Inspection of Facilities held from Wednesday, 17th December to Friday, 19th December 2024, in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Hon. Olopade remarked, “The rescheduling of the festival ensures adequate preparation and delivery of a world-class event. Ogun State is ready to host an unforgettable edition.”
The key dates for the festival were outlined as follows:
- Zonal Elimination for Ball Games: 23rd to 28th February 2025
- Opening Ceremony: 18th May 2025
- Closing Ceremony: 29th May 2025
- Departure: 30th May 2025
Venue and Facilities
The Games Village will be hosted at Babcock University, Ilisan-Remo, Ogun State, which has the capacity to comfortably accommodate 8,000 athletes and officials.
Hon. Olopade highlighted the state-of-the-art facilities, stating, “Babcock University and the surrounding areas provide a conducive environment for the athletes. With facilities like the Remo Stadium and NYSC Orientation Camp, we are confident of a successful festival.”
- Remo Stadium, a privately owned facility, boasts three standard pitches and two newly constructed basketball courts. It is likely to host football, hockey, and basketball competitions.
- NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp will host indoor and combat sports events.
- MKO Abiola International Stadium will accommodate athletics, swimming, handball, and other events.
Terms and Conditions
Prof. E. A. Gunen, Director of Sports, Plateau State Sports Council, issued the following guidelines for the participating states:
- “No athlete or official without their name on the DRM will be admitted into the Games Village.”
- Accredited athletes will be issued cards for feeding.
- Each state must appoint a medical doctor and team in line with specified guidelines.
- Participating contingents are required to have general and health insurance.
- The Main Organizing Committee (MOC) will continue to provide relevant updates where necessary.
Call to Action
All participating states were urged to prepare actively for the games. “This is an opportunity for our athletes to shine,” Prof. Gunen stated, while wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.