National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced that the zonal elimination for team sports ahead of the 22nd National Sports Festival would take place between February 23 and 28, 2025, across all geopolitical zones in the country.
The elimination rounds would determine which state secures a place at Nigeria’s premier multi-sport event, with intense competition expected as athletes battle for qualification.
NSC Director of Information and Public Relations, Ajayi Kehinde disclosed this on a statement issued on Friday in Abuja.
She revealed that team sports to feature in the elimination phase includes: Football, Volleyball, Basketball, Hockey, Cricket, Beach Volleyball, Abula, and Handball.
Kehinde said Kaduna State would host the North West zonal eliminations, while Yobe State would oversee the North East contests.
Meanwhile, athletes from the South East, South West, and South South zones would also compete at their respective venues, setting the stage for thrilling encounters.
In anticipation of the high-stakes competition, Kehinde added that 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.
