Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has endorsed South West Games 2025, saying it remains an avenue to transform sports development and reinforce inter-state cooperation in the region.
Makinde made this declaration while hosting a delegation led by Akogun Olanrewaju Alfred from the tournament’s organising committee at the Government House, Ibadan.
“The South West has always been a powerhouse in Nigerian sports, producing world-class athletes who have represented this country with distinction on the global stage.
“If well put together and the appropriate mechanisms are put in place to sustain it, the South West Games will become one of the region’s most dependable investments in the dreams of our young athletes and the future of the southwest,” Makinde said, adding that the South West Games 2025 will consolidate this legacy opening fresh vistas for the next generation of champions.
He emphasised that the youth-focused approach of the tournament aligns with his administration’s broader vision of empowering young people through sports, education, and entrepreneurship.
“Sports has a profound ability to unify people, transcend barriers, and ignite social progress.
“Beyond medals and trophies, this event will instill discipline, teamwork, and ambition in our young athletes. It will equip participants with values that will serve them in all aspects of life,” he added.
In his remarks, president of the Games’ organising committee, Alfred, hailed Makinde’s endorsement as a significant milestone in the buildup to the meet.
“Governor Makinde’s alignment with this vision underscores the importance of what we are building. The South West Games seeks to create a lasting framework for sports excellence, youth engagement, and regional prosperity. With such committed leadership backing us, we are confident that this event will be remembered as a landmark in Nigerian sports history,” he said.
Meanwhile, the South West Games 2025, scheduled to take place from March 26 to 28 would attract over 1,200 athletes and 120 officials from the six southwestern states: Oyo, Lagos, Ogun, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti.
