22nd National Sports Festival shifted to 2025

The Federal Government has announced the postponement of the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival (NSF) earlier fixed for November in Ogun State to 2025.

In a communique released at the first National Council on Sports in Enugu State, the Minister of Sports Development, Sen. John Enoh, announced the postponement and commended Ogun State Government for its commitment to the successful hosting of the festival.

Enoh noted that the National Sports Festival plays a vital role in national unity, while also increasing socio-economic growth for the sustainable development of the state and the country in general.

He called on the Federal and state governments to bid to host national and international sports competitions, to fast-track the development of sports in the country.

While urging all key stakeholders to play active roles towards the successful hosting of the Gateway Games, the Sports Minister informed that the Council of Sports was in support of the establishment of Sports Development and Investment Fund (NSIDF) for its attendant benefits in driving sports development in Nigeria.

Fielding questions from journalists shortly after the meeting, Ogun State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, expressed the state government’s readiness to host the Festival.

He noted that the NSF embodies capacity to bring people together, foster teamwork, cooperation, instil values of discipline and perseverance, encouraging youths to embrace sports for socio-economic development of the state.

“Through the power of sports, we have the opportunity to come together, forge connections and celebrate our shared humanity.

“We are leveraging on the “Building Our Future Together” agenda of the Governor, to leverage on sports development at the grassroots”, he said.