As anticipation mounts for the 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF), dubbed Gateway Games 2025, the National Sports Commission (NSC) has unveiled a pioneering initiative that’s generating buzz across Nigeria’s sports community. For the first time in the festival’s history, a unique “38th state” will join the competition—not a geographical region, but a contingent of Invited Junior Athletes (IJA), promising young talents handpicked to compete alongside the nation’s elite.
This bold move by the NSC marks a historic shift, integrating junior athletes—identified through the National Youth Games—into Nigeria’s premier multi-sport event. Set to take place in May 2025, Gateway Games will now serve as a proving ground for these emerging stars, offering them a rare chance to test their skills against top-tier competitors from across the country.
A Game-Changing Vision for talent development spearheaded by NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, the IJA initiative reflects a broader mission to build a sustainable framework for Nigerian sports. By creating a seamless bridge between junior and elite levels, the program aims to address a longstanding challenge: the lack of a clear succession plan for the country’s athletes.
The inclusion of junior athletes at the NSF draws inspiration from global models like the Youth Olympic Games, championed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). By competing alongside seasoned professionals, IJA participants will gain invaluable experience, mentorship, and a firsthand look at what it takes to succeed at the highest levels.