22nd National Sports Festival, Gateway Games, Rescheduled for May 16-30, 2025

As of January 13, 2025, the 22nd National Sports Festival, also known as the Gateway Games, has been rescheduled to take place from May 16 to 30, 2025.

This decision was made by the Joint Technical Committee during a recent meeting held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, and aims to align the event with Nigeria’s evolving sports strategies and provide additional time for implementing key recommendations.

The zonal eliminations for team sports are set to occur from February 23 to 28, 2025, allowing teams across the country to compete for a spot in the festival. The postponement from its original January date was deemed necessary to ensure that all preparations are adequately addressed and that the festival meets the expectations of stakeholders and participants.

A communiqué jointly signed by Adebukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission and Chairman of the Main Organizing Committee, and Wasiu Isiaka, Ogun State Commissioner for Sports Development, emphasized the importance of this adjustment. It aims to enhance the overall experience and organization of the festival.

In a notable change for this year’s festival, athletes discovered during the National Youth Games will be invited to participate as Invited Junior athletes. This initiative is part of a broader plan to nurture young talent and foster their development within various sports disciplines.

The committee also commended the Ogun State government for its commitment to hosting the festival, highlighting the warm reception and hospitality extended to participants. Governor Dapo Abiodun has assured that preparations are underway to ensure a successful event that showcases Nigeria’s sporting talent.

The rescheduling of the 22nd National Sports Festival reflects a concerted effort to elevate sports in Nigeria and create a sustainable environment for athletes.

As preparations continue, anticipation builds for what promises to be an exciting showcase of athletic talent and national unity in Ogun State come May 2025.