The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has announced that the national trials for the 2025 Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) U-18 and U-20 Championships will take place from June 30 to July 1 at the Gateway International Stadium in Sagamu, Ogun State.
These trials will serve as the final selection process for Nigerian athletes vying to represent the nation at the continental championships, set for July 16 to 20 at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta.
The CAA championships are expected to draw over 800 athletes from more than 50 African countries, competing in a wide array of track and field events, including sprints, middle- and long-distance races, jumps, throws, hurdles, and relays.
The event, marking its third combined staging for U-18 and U-20 categories, is poised to showcase Africa’s brightest young talents, with Nigeria aiming to make a strong impression on home soil.
To ensure a fair and transparent selection process, the AFN has imposed strict documentation requirements for all participants. Athletes must present valid National Identity Slips, Birth Certificates, School Leaving Certificates, and, where applicable, WAEC results.
The federation has emphasized that failure to provide complete documentation could result in disqualification, urging athletes to arrive fully prepared.
Following the trials, successful athletes will advance to a national training camp focused on physical conditioning, technical refinement, and team cohesion, particularly for relay events. The AFN’s preparations have been meticulous, with 90 junior athletes previously invited to a preliminary camp to lay the groundwork for a competitive showing.
This year’s championship holds special significance as it marks the first time Nigeria will host the event under the current AFN leadership. Initially scheduled for Oran, Algeria, the event was relocated to Abeokuta due to logistical challenges, according to the CAA.
Meanwhile, Kenya has finalized its preparations, selecting 45 athletes who will train from June 30 to July 13 before traveling to Nigeria.
With the stage set for an exciting competition, the 2025 CAA U-18 and U-20 Championships promise to be a pivotal moment for Africa’s next generation of track and field stars.