The inaugural South West Games (SWAG) and Bola Ahmed Tinubu South West Games (BAT SWAG) 2025 concluded in a blaze of glory at the Mobolaji Johnson Stadium in Onikan, Lagos, with the host city emerging victorious. This landmark sporting event, held from March 25th to 28th, showcased the athletic prowess of Under-18 athletes from the six southwestern states of Nigeria: Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Ekiti, Osun, and Oyo. The games featured a diverse range of sporting disciplines, including football, basketball, archery, table tennis, athletics, boxing, and volleyball, providing a platform for young talents to shine and fostering regional unity through healthy competition.
Team Lagos dominated the medal tally, securing a remarkable 14 gold, five silver, and two bronze medals to claim the overall championship. Their exceptional performance was evident across various sports, particularly table tennis, boxing, and archery. They swept all five gold medals in table tennis and clinched all four gold medals in boxing, showcasing their dominance in these disciplines. In archery, they added another four gold, two silver, and one bronze medal to their impressive haul. Ogun State secured the second position with 10 gold medals, while Ondo State finished third with three gold medals.
The closing ceremony was further amplified by a thrilling football final, where the Lagos U-18 team delivered a resounding 5-2 victory against their Ekiti counterparts. This victory served as a fitting culmination of Lagos’s outstanding performance throughout the games, solidifying their position as the undisputed champions of the inaugural SWAG and BAT SWAG 2025. The event not only showcased the athletic capabilities of the young participants but also underscored the importance of sports in fostering camaraderie and regional cooperation.
Lanre Alfred, the convener of the games, expressed his vision for the SWAG and BAT SWAG to become an annual event, highlighting its potential to address the multifaceted challenges faced by young people in the southwest region. He emphasized the games’ role in providing opportunities for exposure, alleviating socio-economic struggles, and inspiring young talents to pursue their dreams. Alfred drew a parallel between the games and the visionary leadership of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, suggesting that the event serves as a testament to Tinubu’s commitment to youth development and empowerment.
Alfred further elaborated on the positive impact of the games on the participating athletes, noting that they discovered purpose, direction, and joy through their involvement in sports. He underscored the importance of sustained support from state governors and corporate organizations to ensure the continuity and growth of the games. Alfred’s appeal for collaborative support reflects the shared responsibility of stakeholders in nurturing the potential of the region’s youth and providing them with the necessary platforms to thrive.
The inaugural SWAG and BAT SWAG 2025 served as a resounding success, not only in terms of athletic achievements but also in demonstrating the power of sports to unite communities and empower young people. The games provided a platform for young athletes to showcase their skills, foster healthy competition, and build lasting relationships. With continued support and investment, the SWAG and BAT SWAG are poised to become a cornerstone of youth development and regional integration in southwestern Nigeria, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come. The event’s success serves as a testament to the dedication of the organizers, the enthusiasm of the participants, and the shared vision of a brighter future for the youth of the region.
