The city of Abeokuta will welcome the continent’s top junior athletes when it hosts the 3rd African U-18 and U-20 Athletics Championship from July 16 to 20 at the newly upgraded MKO Abiola Stadium.
Organisers say more than 50 countries have confirmed their participation, with national teams set to arrive from July 12.
The Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) has inspected and certified the stadium’s facilities, affirming that Abeokuta meets international standards for track and field competition.
Mr. Kola Daniel, Special Assistant on Media to the Director General of the National Sports Commission, noted that Nigeria’s hosting of the championship highlights the country’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
“All eyes are on Nigeria as the country sets the stage for a new generation of stars who are poised to follow in the footsteps of national legends like Falilat Ogunkoya, Mary Onyali, Olusoji Fasuba, Deji Aliyu, and Yusuf Alli, all of whom first shone on similar junior stages before becoming global icons,” he said.
In addition to athletics, Ogun State is preparing to host the WAFU B U-17 Football Championship later this year, Mr. Daniel added.
With facilities recently modernised and logistical arrangements in place, organisers anticipate a smooth competition that will not only crown new champions but also strengthen continental ties through sport.
Discover more from Amebo Media
Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.
