Beyond the Games: NSC Invests in Youth, Unity and Olympic Dreams via Inaugural African School Games
As the curtain rises on the Maiden African School Games in Algeria, the National Sports Commission (NSC) has ensured Nigeria’s participation in this historic continental event, affirming its commitment to youth development, national pride, and the Olympic dream.
Taking place from July 26 to August 5, 2025 in Algerian cities, the African School Games is a first-of-its-kind initiative organized by the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) in partnership with the International School Sport Federation (ISF) and supported by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Nigeria will be represented by a delegation of 60 student-athletes competing across 10 sporting disciplines, supported by officials, coaches, and medical staff. These promising athletes are set to fly the Nigerian flag high and demonstrate the country’s rich sporting potential on a stage tailored to groom the next generation of champions.
“This isn’t just about winning medals. It’s about shaping futures, building unity across the continent, and instilling values that last a lifetime,” said Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission.
“Nigeria’s participation is a strategic investment in the youth, who are the foundation of our nation’s greatness in sport and beyond.”
The Games emphasize Olympic values which includes friendship, solidarity, and fair play. It offers a unique opportunity to identify and nurture emerging talent across Africa.
With 25 sports disciplines on the schedule, the event aligns with Nigeria’s broader strategy to deepen its talent pool ahead of international competitions such as the Los Angeles 2028, Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, amongst others.
“We are not just participating; we are preparing. This experience will equip our athletes with exposure, resilience, and international perspective needed to thrive at global levels,” Olopade added.
The African School Games also reflect a deeper mission: promoting pan-African unity and using sport as a tool for social development. Nigerian athletes will compete alongside peers from across the continent, fostering mutual respect, cultural exchange, and lasting friendships.
Olympic icons Noureddine Morceli and Hassiba Boulmerka have been appointed ambassadors for the Games, offering mentorship and inspiration to young athletes.
President of ANOCA, Mustapha Berraf, lauded the significance of the Games:
“We are witnessing an exceptional moment. ANOCA is living one of its most cherished dreams; offering African youths a platform for development through sport, in the spirit of Olympism.”
The National Sports Commission remains steadfast in its vision of using sport as a vehicle for nation-building and youth empowerment.
Nigeria’s participation in the African School Games underscores that vision and sets the stage for the rise of a new generation of Nigerian champions.
