The inaugural South West Games, slated to take place from March 25th to 29th, 2025, in Lagos, Nigeria, is poised to be a landmark event, showcasing the athletic prowess and spirit of unity among the six southwestern states. Following extensive deliberations between state sports directors and Practagali Partners, the event organizers, seven sporting disciplines have been selected for the games: football, basketball, table tennis, boxing, athletics, volleyball, and archery. This diverse range of sports promises a captivating display of skill and competition, attracting athletes from across the region. The meticulous planning and enthusiastic collaboration between organizers and state representatives underscore the commitment to delivering a high-quality sporting spectacle.
The participating states – Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, and Oyo – have meticulously finalized the composition of their teams across the various sports. Football squads will comprise 18 male players and seven coaches, while table tennis will feature one male and one female representative from each state. Boxing will showcase four male athletes per state, and athletics will involve four male and four female athletes. Basketball, volleyball, and archery will also boast a diverse contingent of participants, reflecting the region’s commitment to inclusivity and fostering a competitive environment for both male and female athletes. This detailed planning ensures a balanced representation across all participating states and sporting disciplines.
Adding an extra layer of excitement and opportunity to the South West Games is the concurrent Bola Ahmed Tinubu Southwest Alliance Games (BATSWAG), a sub-tournament specifically designed for athletes under the age of 18. BATSWAG offers a platform for emerging talent to shine, providing them with invaluable experience and exposure on a regional stage. This strategic inclusion reinforces the Games’ commitment to nurturing young athletes and building a strong foundation for the future of sports in the region. The combined efforts of the South West Games and BATSWAG signify a comprehensive approach to sports development, encompassing both established athletes and rising stars.
The organizers of the South West Games have emphasized their unwavering commitment to ensuring a successful and memorable event. Funmilola Adedipe, Managing Director of Practagali Partners, has expressed confidence in the meticulous preparations and the overwhelming support received from the state sports directors. This collaborative approach, evident in the detailed planning and open communication, bodes well for the smooth execution of the games. The organizers have also articulated the broader objective of the Games, which extends beyond mere competition. Victor Ganzallo, Director of Media for the Games, highlighted the event’s potential to inspire young athletes, instilling in them a sense of purpose and ambition while fostering national sports development.
Logistics for the Games have been meticulously planned, with designated venues selected for each sporting discipline. The YABATECH Sports Complex will host football and athletics competitions, taking advantage of its expansive facilities. The Teslim Balogun Stadium will serve as the venue for table tennis, volleyball, boxing, and archery, providing a centralized location for these sports. Basketball matches will be held at the Rowe Park Sports Complex. Accommodation for participants has also been arranged at Faith Plaza and The Anglican House, both strategically located near the competition venues to minimize travel time and maximize convenience. This meticulous planning reflects the organizers’ dedication to providing a seamless and comfortable experience for all participants.
To further enhance the sense of regional pride and identity, each participating state has been assigned a distinctive jersey color. Ekiti will don blue jerseys, Lagos red, Ogun yellow, Ondo green, Osun white, and Oyo burgundy. This colorful representation will not only distinguish teams on the field but also symbolize the vibrant diversity of the southwestern region. Every participant will receive a certificate of participation, acknowledging their contribution to the Games. Gold, silver, and bronze medals will be awarded to top performers in various categories, recognizing individual achievements. Furthermore, an overall trophy will be presented to the top three performing states, celebrating their collective excellence and promoting healthy competition among the states. These initiatives underscore the organizers’ intent to create a memorable and rewarding experience for all participants, celebrating both individual and team achievements.
