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Kwara State has once again stamped its authority as the home of squash in Nigeria, emerging as the overall champion in the squash category at the 2025 National Youth Games (NYG) held in Asaba, Delta State today, 4th of September 2025.
The state’s young athletes delivered an outstanding performance, clinching 3 Gold and 2 Bronze medals out of the five squash events to finish top of the medal table. In contrast, Akwa Ibom, which placed second, managed only one medal.
Kwara’s gold sweep in both the boys’ and girls’ categories highlighted not only the depth of talent in the state but also the dividends of years of structured investment in grassroots sports development.
This latest feat further builds on Kwara’s pedigree in squash, coming just months after the state’s top female players dominated the 2024 National Sports Festival, “Gateway Games,” in Ogun State. It is yet another affirmation of the popular saying that “Kwara is the Mecca of Squash in Nigeria.”
Speaking on the historic achievement, Olaide Ahli praised the unwavering support of Governor Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, describing him as a leader who has consistently invested in sports and youth development since assuming office.
“When you have the right pen in the hole, the result will always be positive,” Ahli said, commending the role of Mallam Bolakale Adisa Mogaji, Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission.
“Mogaji, as an international sportsman, coach, and administrator, has been both covertly and overtly driving progress in our sports community.”
Top female squash star Rofiat Abdulazeez also applauded the governor for his continuous support for sports development and expressed gratitude to Mogaji for his leadership in steering Kwara sports to new heights. “Squash will continue to bring glory to our state,” she assured.
Meanwhile, Aishat Abduraheem, who won two gold medals at the ongoing Games, dedicated her victory to the governor, the Sports Commission chairman, and the entire Kwara squash family, promising to keep raising the flag of the state high.
Kwara’s dominance in Asaba is now being celebrated as a milestone in the state’s sports history—a victory that reinforces its rising profile as Nigeria’s hub of squash excellence and a clear sign of greater successes to come.
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