With just 35 days remaining, Nigeria is intensifying preparations to host the 3rd Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) African Junior Athletics Championship, set for July 16-20, 2025, at the newly refurbished MKO Abiola International Stadium in Abeokuta.
The biennial event, returning to Nigerian soil, is poised to showcase the continent’s brightest young talents in track and field, cementing Nigeria’s reputation as a powerhouse in African sports.
The championship will see over 500 athletes from more than 50 African nations compete in the Under-18 and Under-20 categories. The MKO Abiola International Stadium, fresh from hosting the 22nd National Sports Festival, is ready to provide a world-class stage for these emerging stars. South Africa, the reigning champions, will face stiff competition from Nigeria’s homegrown talents, who are eager to seize the spotlight and challenge for the title on familiar ground.
Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director-General of the National Sports Commission, emphasized the event’s significance, stating, “This is not just a competition; it is a celebration of Africa’s future in track and field. Nigeria is honored to host once again and demonstrate its world-class capacity in organizing major sporting events.”
Abeokuta, fondly known as the Gateway City, is rapidly establishing itself as a hub for sports development in Nigeria. Its state-of-the-art facilities and strategic location promise an unforgettable experience for athletes, officials, and spectators.
The event is expected to draw significant attention, with local authorities and organizers working tirelessly to ensure a seamless and memorable championship.
As the countdown to July 16 continues, anticipation is building across the continent. Nigeria aims to deliver a spectacular showcase of athletic prowess, reinforcing its status as Africa’s sporting giant and setting the stage for the rise of new track and field stars.