Nearly 900 Athletes Expected as Nigeria Prepares for African U18/U20 Championship
Nigeria is gearing up to welcome nearly 900 young athletes for the 3rd African U18/U20 Athletics Championship, a major continental event set to take place in Abeokuta, Ogun State, from July 16 to 20, 2025.
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, revealed during a world press conference in Abuja that 583 athletes from 30 countries have already confirmed participation—with the number projected to climb to 900 as entries continue to roll in.
Olopade, who also chairs the Local Organizing Committee, emphasized the significance of Nigeria hosting the event after Algeria’s withdrawal, describing it as a ‘win-win’ for national sports and economic development. He credited the NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, for securing the hosting rights during a strategic visit to Algeria.
‘This championship is a game-changer,’ Olopade said. ‘Not only are we boosting local capacity and economic activity, but we’re also reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a central force in African athletics.’
He noted that preparations are on track across all operational areas—including accommodation, transportation, nutrition, technical coordination, and media logistics—with the goal of delivering a world-class competition experience.
The event also holds strategic importance for the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), which is expected to leverage the championship to scout emerging talent ahead of the Islamic Games, Commonwealth Games, and the Los Angeles Olympics.
With the eyes of the continent fixed on Abeokuta, the championship promises not just to showcase athletic prowess but also to spotlight Nigeria’s potential as a global sports hub.
