After making history at the 2024 National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, also known as the Gateway Games, flag football athlete Godswill Chukwu is quickly pivoting focus to another major event — the Showtime Flag Football Bowl, set for this Sunday in Lagos.
Chukwu, who represented Lagos State as a member of the Warriors team, described the opportunity to compete at the prestigious national event as an unforgettable milestone, both personally and for the sport of flag football in Nigeria.
“It was great. Above all, it was great for me to be able to be a part of this history-making appearance at the National Sports Festival,” Chukwu told Sports247 in Abeokuta.
“It was a massive experience. I’d like to thank the Showtime Flag Football League, Ogun State, and Nigeria in general for giving us this platform to showcase what we love to do.”
A veteran of the sport for over seven years, Chukwu’s passion for flag football began with a simple introduction by a friend, following his longtime admiration for American football.
Though relatively under the radar, the sport has been growing steadily in Nigeria, with Showtime Flag Football League — based in Lagos — leading the charge.
“Yeah, we do have a league in Lagos. It’s one of the biggest ingrown local leagues right now,” Chukwu said. “We play at Ikate, at Meadow Hall — or Showtime Arena, as we like to call it.”
Reflecting on his time in Abeokuta, Chukwu expressed gratitude not only for the games but also for the warm hospitality of the host city.
“The atmosphere is fantastic,” he said. “I’ve been here once before as a kid during a school excursion, but this is my first real experience of the city. The people are loving, kind, and respectful. I’m in love with it.”
Despite his desire to spend more time exploring the city after the festival, Chukwu is returning promptly to Lagos to prepare for Sunday’s Showtime Flag Football League final.
“My team is going to the finals, and we’re supposed to be back for practice and camp,” he said. “After winning for Lagos at the National Sports Festival, crowning a successful season with the Showtime Flag Football champions medal would be the perfect ending.”
With eyes now set on clinching the Showtime title, Chukwu’s performance in Abeokuta has cemented his place as a rising ambassador for the sport — and Sunday’s finale promises to be the next chapter in his inspiring journey.
