Ado Salisu
10 days left, and all eyes are on Abeokuta, Ogun State, as the city braces to host the continent’s most promising young athletes at the 3rd African U18/U20 Athletics Championships.
From July 16 to 20, the historic MKO Abiola Stadium will serve as the single venue for all events — a unified arena where talent, ambition, and national pride will collide in a celebration of African excellence.
This edition is already breaking records before the first race begins. Thus far, a total of 43 countries have confirmed participation, with 937 athletes and officials set to compete.
The figure marks one of the highest turnouts in the competition’s history and reflects the growing significance of youth athletics as a cornerstone for long-term sports development across the continent.
In preparation for the 22nd National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, the MKO Abiola Stadium had undergone significant renovations, including track resurfacing, improved facilities for athletes and media, and infrastructure upgrades to meet global standards.
The Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) endorsed the venue following thorough inspections, applauding the commitment shown by State and national authorities.
In line with the vision of the National Sports Commission (NSC) sponsors and partners have remained key in the planning of the Championship.
They include the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Bank of Industry (BOI), and LEDCO Limited.
The NSC is reinforcing its belief that sport is a powerful tool for youth engagement, national branding, and socioeconomic development.
Final preparations are underway, with hotels across Abeokuta filling up and local volunteers, security teams, and medical personnel on standby to support smooth operations throughout the event.
Organisers have assured the public and participating nations that Abeokuta is fully ready to deliver a successful, secure, and inspiring championship.
With the countdown nearing single digits, excitement is building across the continent.
One stadium, one city, and one shared dream — the 3rd African U18/U20 Athletics Championships promise to be a landmark event in the future of African sport.