No fewer than 300 gymnasts are set to participate in the second edition of the Gymfest Gymnastics Championship, scheduled to be held on November 1 in Lagos.
The highly anticipated event, which will feature competitors from pre-level 1 to level 7, aims to showcase Nigeria’s growing gymnastics talent and inspire the next generation of athletes, some as young as three years old.
Organisers say this year’s edition goes beyond competition; it will serve as a platform to foster discipline, teamwork, and national unity among young athletes.
The championship will also bring together sports enthusiasts, coaches, parents, and administrators to discuss how gymnastics can drive youth development and strengthen Nigeria’s sporting culture.
Speaking ahead of the event, co-convener of the championship, Sarah Boulos, described Gymfest as a long-term project designed to elevate the standard of gymnastics in Nigeria.
“Gymfest is not just a competition but a movement aimed at improving the standard of gymnastics in Nigeria and nurturing young talents into world-class athletes,” she said.
Boulos emphasised that the initiative is built around sustainability and youth development.
“Our goal is to build a sustainable pathway for gymnastics in Nigeria, one that inspires confidence, encourages participation, and raises the next generation of champions,” she added.
Boulos also called for stronger parental involvement, stressing that support at home is key to grooming successful athletes.
“We are promoting the sport of gymnastics and helping parents understand that it serves as a fantastic foundation for all sports. Gymnastics develops essential physical, mental, and social skills in children,” she explained.
She added that early participation in the sport can help children develop agility, discipline, and confidence that translate into other areas of life.
The event’s Program Director, Yoyin Akpose, said Gymfest serves as a meeting point for everyone passionate about the sport, from parents to professional coaches.
“Gymfest brings together parents, coaches, gymnastics enthusiasts, and supporters to celebrate and promote the growth of gymnastics in Nigeria,” Akpose said.
She noted that beyond medals and trophies, the event is helping to build a community committed to seeing Nigeria excel on the global gymnastics stage.
