22nd National Sports Festival: Zonal Elimination Begins February 23

The stage is set for the zonal elimination phase of the 22nd National Sports Festival, as states from across the country compete for places in the national finals.

The National Sports Commission(NSC) disclosed this in a statement issued by Mrs Ajayi Kehinde, director (information and PR).

The commission said the zonal eliminations for team sports ahead of the 22nd National Sports Festival will take place from February 23 to 28, 2025, across all geopolitical zones in the country.

“The elimination rounds will determine which states secure a place at Nigeria’s premier multi-sport event, with intense competition expected as athletes battle for qualification.

“Team sports featured in the elimination phase include football, volleyball, basketball, hockey, cricket, beach volleyball, abula, and handball.

“Kaduna State will host the North West zonal eliminations, while Yobe State will oversee the North East contests. Meanwhile, athletes from the South East, South West, and South South zones will also compete at their respective venues, setting the stage for thrilling encounters.

“In anticipation of the high-stakes competition, NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade are making plans to visit selected centers to assess preparations and witness the action firsthand.

“The 22nd National Sports Festival, Gateway Games scheduled to take place in Ogun State from May 16-30, 2025, is expected to be one of the most competitive editions yet, with top athletes and teams vying for glory on the national stage.The statement reads.