Sports Recorder | By Solomon OKPO
With just a fortnight to go, the city of Abeokuta in Ogun State is primed to become the heartbeat of African athletics as it prepares to host the 3rd African U18/U20 Athletics Championships, from July 16 to 20, 2025.
The championship has attracted confirmation from 43 African countries, with a combined 937 athletes and officials set to compete and participate in what promises to be a thrilling celebration of youth sports and continental unity.
Organizers are racing against time to deliver a world-class event, putting in place top-notch logistics spanning transportation, accommodation, catering, competition services, and liaison operations. The goal is simple: to provide a seamless, unforgettable experience worthy of Africa’s rising sports stars.
Africa’s traditional athletics powerhouses—Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Egypt—are well represented, alongside notable challengers such as Ghana, Algeria, Morocco, Cameroon, Senegal, and Uganda.
Nigeria, the host nation, is fielding the largest contingent with 110 athletes (60 male, 50 female) and 22 officials, bringing its delegation to 132. South Africa follows with a strong presence of 100 participants, including 42 male and 40 female athletes, backed by 18 officials.
Ethiopia arrives with 57 athletes and 12 officials, totaling 69, while Kenya brings an equal mix of 25 male and 25 female athletes, with 17 officials, summing up to 67 participants. Algeria has confirmed a delegation of 65.
This championship comes on the heels of Abeokuta’s resounding success in hosting the 2024 Gateway Games, where over 15,000 athletes and officials converged for the 22nd National Sports Festival. The city earned national applause for its impeccable hospitality and top-tier facilities.
The African U18/U20 Championships, sanctioned by the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA), is expected to be a launchpad for the continent’s future Olympic hopefuls. The event reaffirms Nigeria’s growing reputation as a sporting destination and underlines its commitment to youth empowerment, international collaboration, and sports development.
All eyes are now on Abeokuta, as it prepares to welcome the continent’s best young athletes in a five-day spectacle of talent, determination, and African pride.
