The Confederation of African Athletics, CAA, has extended heartfelt appreciation to the Nigerian government for stepping in to host the 3rd edition of the African U18 and U20 Championships in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The decision, which came after Algeria pulled out as host, has been hailed as a major win for African youth athletics.
At a council meeting held in Abeokuta, the President of the Confederation of African Athletics, Hamad Kalkaba Malboum, expressed profound gratitude to the Nigerian government for its swift intervention and support in hosting the championship.
The CAA President thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for authorizing the hosting of the games, describing Nigeria as a pillar of African sports and the continent’s largest economy.
Malboum also acknowledged the role of the Ogun State Government in providing state-of-the-art facilities for the athletes.
Special recognition was given to Mr. Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, for his pivotal role in making Nigeria the host nation, and to the Local Organizing Committee led by Bukola Olapade and AFN President Tonobok Okowa.
Beyond hosting, the CAA President emphasized the importance of investing in youth championships as a way to curb the rising trend of African athletes switching nationality to represent other countries.
The 3rd edition of the African U18/U20 Athletics Championship is scheduled to take place from July 16th to 20th, 2025, at the newly upgraded MKO Sports Arena in Abeokuta.
Over 40 African countries are expected to participate, making it one of the biggest youth sporting events on the continent this year.
All eyes now turn to Abeokuta, as Africa’s next generation of champions prepares to compete.
(Editor: Nkoli Omhoudu)
