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South West Games 2025: Lagos To Host As National Sports Commission Endorses Regional Sports Revolution [PHOTOS]

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All roads lead to March 2025. In the third month of the new calendar year, a grand new spectacle is set to unfold as the National Sports Commission (NSC) partners with Practagali Limited to host the maiden edition of the South West Games 2025. A sub-tournament of this pioneering initiative, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Southwest Alliance Games (BAT-SWAG), will serve as an illustrious platform to unearth and nurture the region’s next generation of sporting talents.

Like a well-struck gong resonating across the six Southwestern states—Ekiti, Lagos, Osun, Ondo, Ogun, and Oyo—this tournament heralds a new dawn of competitive sportsmanship, youth empowerment, and regional unity. More than a tournament, the South West Games 2025 is an epochal rallying call for athletes, policymakers, and sports enthusiasts to converge in celebration of skill, endurance, and the unifying spirit of the game.

The NSC, from its citadel of sports governance, has endorsed the historic event. In a declaration suffused with optimism, the Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olawale Olopade, underscored the Commission’s commitment to ensuring the Games achieve their full potential. “The South West Games 2025 and the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Southwest Alliance Games are not mere contests of athletic prowess; they are platforms for youth engagement, talent discovery, and community unity. The NSC recognizes the immense potential of this initiative to elevate sports development and nation-building.”

He further emphasized that beyond the spectacle of competition, these Games will become conduits for leadership growth, skill development, and economic stimulation across the region. To this end, the NSC has pledged its unwavering support in providing technical expertise, logistical assistance, and strategic direction to ensure the tournament meets international standards.

“By uniting people through sports, the Games will not only elevate the competitive landscape of the region but will also serve as an engine for fostering resilience, discipline, and social cohesion,” Olopade remarked. He lauded Practagali Limited for its visionary leadership in conceiving such an initiative, stressing that the synergy between government and private stakeholders will be crucial in redefining the Southwest as a veritable hub of sporting excellence.

The decision to host the inaugural edition of the South West Games in Lagos stands as a testament to the state’s towering reputation as the heartbeat of Nigerian sports. From its world-class sporting infrastructure to its history of hosting elite competitions, Lagos offers a fertile ground upon which this grand sporting vision will blossom.

The Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, expressed confidence in the state’s ability to deliver a spectacle worthy of its name. “Hosting the inaugural Bola Ahmed Tinubu Southwest Alliance Games is a reaffirmation of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s unwavering commitment to sports development. Lagos has consistently championed the cause of athletic excellence, making it the perfect launchpad for this historic initiative.”

Echoing this sentiment, Victor Ganzallo, the Spokesman for the Games, described BAT-SWAG as a potent tool to channel the energies of youth into productive ventures, particularly in an era where social vices lurk as omnipresent threats. He said, “Sports possess an unparalleled power to transform lives, and BAT-SWAG is designed to harness this power to inspire, uplift, and empower young people.

“The legacy of BAT-SWAG will be measured not just in the moments of triumph on the field but in the opportunities it creates, the lives it transforms, and the communities it uplifts. This is more than a sporting event; it is a movement.”

On her part, Funmilola Adedipe, the Managing Director of Practagali Partners, the Games are designed to be more than just an exhibition of athletic prowess—they will be a blueprint for youth engagement, grassroots talent development, and the cultivation of a robust sporting culture within the region. “The South West Games will not only provide a podium for young athletes to shine but will also catalyze the creation of a sustainable ecosystem where sports serve as a gateway to economic empowerment, education, and career advancement.”

The South West Games 2025 is geared to transcend the traditional confines of competition, offering an eclectic mix of sporting disciplines tailored to both contemporary and indigenous traditions. Competitions will span athletics (track and field), basketball, boxing, football, table tennis, and traditional African games such as Ayo-Olopon and Abula. In a commendable move towards inclusivity, the event will also feature adaptive sports, ensuring that athletes with disabilities are afforded an equal platform to showcase their skills.

Beyond the fanfare of medals and trophies, the South West Games 2025 is designed to leave an enduring imprint on the socio-economic fabric of the region. The influx of athletes, spectators, and corporate sponsors is expected to invigorate local economies, drive infrastructural enhancements, and foster an enduring culture of sports patronage.

Moreover, as the Games become institutionalized, they will serve as a breeding ground for future Olympians, national team prospects, and international sports icons. The organizers envision a tournament where every participant—whether triumphant or not—leaves with valuable lessons in discipline, teamwork, and resilience.

As the countdown begins to the inaugural South West Games 2025, the stakes have never been higher. For the NSC, Practagali Limited, and the Lagos State Sports Commission, this is a defining moment—a chance to etch an indelible chapter in Nigeria’s sporting annals.

With Lagos as its grand stage, and with the NSC’s strategic oversight, BAT-SWAG is primed to become a hub of talent discovery, youth engagement, and regional unity. The Southwest is on the cusp of a sporting renaissance as the echoes of competition reverberate across its landscapes.

The stage is set, the anticipation palpable. The South West Games 2025 beckon, promising a spectacle not merely to be witnessed, but to be felt in the very heartbeat of the region.

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NSA Ribadu Tells Canada To “Go To Hell” For Denying Military Chiefs Visas

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In a significant diplomatic snub, Canada has refused to grant visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, and several other senior military officers for an official event. Speaking on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at the first annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies (AANISS) in Abuja, National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu voiced his dissatisfaction, telling Canada “to go to hell.”

The officials were scheduled to participate in a ceremony in Canada honoring war veterans, but only a part of the delegation was granted visas, sparking strong reactions from Nigerian authorities.

Ribadu and Musa discussed the matter at the inaugural lecture of the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies (AANISS). The event, attended by security experts and government officials, highlighted national security and international collaboration.

Ribadu labeled the visa denial as disrespectful, while Musa stressed that Nigeria needs to assert itself internationally and no longer be taken lightly. Musa reflected on how his team had been invited to the veterans’ event, only to be hit with an unexpected setback when some members of the delegation were denied entry. He viewed the incident as a reminder for Nigeria to bolster its independence and strength.

He stated, “Every disappointment is a blessing. Yesterday, I was meant to be in Canada for an event to honor our veterans… half of us have gone, and half have been denied. It’s very disappointing. It’s a clear reminder that the country must stand on its own, stand strong as a nation, and should no longer be taken for granted.”

Ribadu commended Musa for his leadership in tackling security issues and underscored the importance of national advancement. He remarked, “Thank you for having the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell. Even though it’s painful and disrespectful, we are peaceful and strong, and I agree with you that it is time to fix our country.”

The visa rejection raises concerns about Canada’s position on Nigerian military officials and its broader diplomatic relationship with Nigeria. While the exact reasons for the denial remain unclear, the incident has shed light on the bureaucratic and political obstacles Nigerian officials face in international dealings.

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Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st Gears Up For Laffmattazz “About Time World Tour”

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Iconic Nigerian comedian, Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st, is set to embark on a global comedy tour, bringing laughter and excitement to fans around the world.

The Laffmattazz tagged “About Time World Tour” promises to be an unforgettable experience, featuring Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st’s unique brand of comedy and other amazing comedians.

The tour will kick off in Nigeria, with shows in Ibadan, Akure, Abeokuta, and Lagos.

From there, Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st will take his comedy to the global stage, performing in the UK, Canada, and the USA.

“We are thrilled to announce the Laffmattazz World Tour, which promises to be an epic comedy experience,” said Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st.

When asked what his fans should expect, Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st said “We have an amazing lineup of shows planned, and we can’t wait to bring laughter and joy to our fans around the world.”

The Laffmattazz World Tour is set to be a hilarious and entertaining experience, featuring Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st’s signature comedy style, which blends humor, storytelling, and audience interaction.

For more information on the Laffmattazz World Tour, including tour dates, venues, and ticket information, follow us on social media @gbengaadeyinka1stgcon @Laffmattazz_ga1st

Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #LaffmattazzWorldTour.

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Our Matriarch Has Returned To Her Creator

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With a heavy heart and complete submission to the will of Almighty Allah, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Mrs Mojisola Norinatu Adebayo Nee Adelakun who departed this world on the evening of Tuesday, February 11, 2025.

Fondly known as Iya Wale, she lived a remarkable 68years filled with love, kindness, and wisdom. She was a pillar of strength who taught us patience, tolerance, and, above all, the true essence of love. Her presence touched many lives, and her legacy of compassion will forever remain in our hearts.

Though my siblings and I deeply mourn her loss, we take solace in the knowledge that she has returned to her Creator. In accordance with Islamic rites, she was laid to rest on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.

As we reflect on her impactful life, the family will hold the 8th Day Fidau prayers next week to honor her memory. We kindly ask for your prayers and support during this difficult time.

May Allah grant her eternal rest and admit her into Al-Jannah Firdaus.

 

Dr. Abiola Adebayo

For the Family

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