Nigeria to Hoist Flag in Algeria for Maiden African School Games

Nigeria has confirmed its participation in the maiden edition of the African School Games scheduled to hold in Algeria from July 26 to August 5, 2025. The event, which will host school-age athletes from across the continent, is being organised by the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) in partnership with the International School Sport Federation (ISF), with support from the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The Games will take place across four Algerian cities—Constantine, Sétif, Skikda, and Annaba—with delegations expected to arrive by July 23. Nigeria’s participation will be coordinated by the Nigeria School Sports Federation (NSSF) in collaboration with the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC). Nigeria will compete in 10 sports including athletics, basketball, badminton, beach volleyball, football, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo, canoeing, and cycling. The NSSF has already commenced selection trials, with swimming and table tennis qualifiers held in Lagos from June 23 to 25, while the Milo Secondary School Basketball Championship is serving as a major scouting ground for basketball talent. Director General of the NSC, Dr. Bukola Olopade, described Nigeria’s participation as a milestone for grassroots sports development in the country. He stated that the Games present a major opportunity for Nigeria to showcase its youthful sporting potential on an international stage. In a move widely applauded across the continent, the Algerian government has waived participation fees for all countries. Algeria’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Walid Sadi, said the gesture was aimed at promoting African solidarity and removing financial barriers to youth participation. The NSC and NOC are also working closely with parents, schools, and sports officials to ensure smooth travel arrangements and proper documentation for all Nigerian athletes. The Games are expected to host over 2,000 participants from more than 40 countries. Nigeria’s involvement in the inaugural African School Games marks a significant step in the country’s efforts to build a stronger pipeline of youth athletes capable of competing at global levels, including the Youth Olympic Games and other international competitions.