Over 1,300 Athletes Set for MTN CHAMPS Continental Relays in Jos

The New Jos Stadium is set to host a surge of youthful energy and elite competition as more than 1,300 athletes from 148 schools and teams converge for the MTN CHAMPS Continental Relays, a World Athletics Continental Tour Challenger event scheduled from March 26 to 28, 2026.

This marks a highly anticipated return to the northern city, which last staged the second leg of Season 2 in 2024, reaffirming Jos’ growing reputation as a key hub for athletics development in Nigeria.

The championship will feature 94 track and field events across four age categories viz Cadet (U14), Youth (U17), Junior (U20), and Senior, solidifying MTN CHAMPS’ status as the largest athletics competition in Nigeria’s history.

With over 3,150 event entries, the Cadet and Youth divisions have drawn particularly strong participation, showcasing nearly 600 athletes from 76 schools. Their involvement underscores the championship’s mission of talent discovery and early-stage athlete development.

Beyond the numbers, the competition promises three days of high-intensity action, emerging rivalries, and opportunities for young athletes to shine on a national stage.

For seasoned competitors, the relays serve as vital preparation ahead of major international competitions.

To ensure smooth participation, bib collection will serve as the final confirmation of entry.

All registered schools and athletes must collect bibs by Wednesday, March 25, at the New Jos Stadium. Athletes under 21 are required to submit signed parental consent forms during bib collection, with school or team representatives ensuring compliance for Cadet, Youth, and Junior categories.

Registration also remains open for the MTN CHAMPS Grand Final in Ibadan, scheduled for April 15–18, 2026, where the season will culminate in another showcase of Nigeria’s brightest athletic talent.