Team Nigeria is preparing to make a significant impact at the 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games, as 27 African nations gather in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, for what is expected to be a magnificent celebration of unity, excellence, and intense competition.
With a delegation of 46 members, including 35 athletes and 11 officials, Nigeria joins over 800 African competitors who will participate in 21 sports across nine top-tier venues from November 7 to 21, 2025.
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For Nigeria, the Games signify more than merely a sporting occasion — they are part of a larger initiative to reaffirm the nation’s position in the global sports arena.
According to Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), this participation highlights Nigeria’s long-term strategy for sports development.
“The Islamic Solidarity Games present a tremendous opportunity for Nigeria to display our talent on the international stage,” Olopade stated. “This serves as a stepping stone toward Los Angeles 2028, and our athletes are prepared to excel.”
Nigeria’s Medal Aspirations
Nigeria will compete in seven disciplines, with athletics anticipated to spearhead the medal pursuit, which includes Athletics, Boxing, Para Athletics, Para Powerlifting, Taekwondo, Weightlifting, and Wrestling.
Beyond the quest for medals, the NSC regards the Games as a crucial preparatory platform leading up to the 2026 National Sports Festival, concentrating on logistics, team management, and performance enhancement.
To date, Nigeria has achieved 11 medals in previous Islamic Solidarity Games — 3 gold, 6 silver, and 2 bronze — and aims to exceed that count in Riyadh.
Africa’s Representation in Riyadh
Throughout the continent, excitement is palpable. Algeria arrives with the largest African delegation of 117 athletes, followed by Egypt (101) and Morocco (82). Conversely, Mali sends the smallest African team, consisting of just two athletes.
Cameroon is at the forefront among Nigeria’s West African neighbors, fielding 51 athletes, while Benin, Chad, Niger, and Côte d’Ivoire are also preparing to compete.
At the send-off event held by Morocco’s Olympic Committee on October 26, athletes were encouraged to ‘pursue excellence, embody unity, and return with glory,’ following a remarkable performance in 2022 in Konya, Türkiye, where they secured 15 gold, 13 silver, and 34 bronze medals.
A Global Celebration of Unity
In total, 3,500 athletes representing 57 nations — all affiliated with the Islamic Solidarity Sports Federation (ISSF) — will take part in Riyadh, competing in 21 sports and three para events.
From the mat to the track, the ring to the cheers of the audience, Africa is ready to leave its imprint.
For Team Nigeria, the Islamic Solidarity Games signify more than just another competition — they represent the beginning of a new Olympic aspiration.
