The six states in Nigeria's Southwest region have confirmed their participation in the maiden edition of the South West Games (SWG), scheduled to take place from March 25 to 29 in Lagos. The states have also agreed on seven sporting events for the competition.
The selected sports include football, basketball, table tennis, boxing, athletics, volleyball, and archery.
This announcement came after an intensive meeting between state sports directors and event organizers, Practagali Partners, last Friday.
Event Format and Participation Details
According to the organizers, each sport will have a structured format for participation:
- Football: 18 male players with seven coaches
- Table Tennis: One male and one female player
- Boxing: Four male participants
- Athletics: Four male and four female athletes
- Basketball, Volleyball, and Archery: Will feature a mix of participants from each state
Adding to the excitement, the event will also feature a premier sub-tournament, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Southwest Alliance Games (BATSWAG), which will serve as a platform for discovering the region’s most talented under-18 athletes.
Commitment to a Successful Games
Funmilola Adedipe, Managing Director of Practagali Partners, reaffirmed the commitment to delivering a groundbreaking event.
“We are leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that the South West Games 2025 surpasses expectations. The overwhelming support and readiness from the state sports directors have further energized our resolve to execute a truly historic competition.”
Echoing this sentiment, Victor Ganzallo, Director of Media for the Games, emphasized the broader significance of the tournament beyond competition.
“This tournament is about legacy. It is about giving young athletes a sense of purpose, a platform to excel, and an opportunity to dream beyond their immediate environment. BATSWAG and SWG 2025 will serve as a vehicle for talent discovery and national sports development.”
Team Colors and Venue Allocations
To foster a strong regional identity, each participating state will have a distinctive team color:
- Ekiti – Blue
- Lagos – Red
- Ogun – Yellow
- Ondo – Green
- Osun – White
- Oyo – Burgundy
The designated venues for the competitions have also been finalized:
- YABATECH Sports Complex – Football and athletics
- Teslim Balogun Stadium – Table tennis, volleyball, boxing, and archery
- Rowe Park Sports Complex – Basketball
Participants will be accommodated at Faith Plaza and The Anglican House, both located near the competition venues.
Awards and Recognition
All participants will receive a certificate of participation, while gold, silver, and bronze medals will be awarded in various categories. Additionally, an overall trophy will be presented to the top three performing states after the tournament.
With preparations in full swing, the South West Games 2025 promises to be a landmark event in the region's sporting history.