Nigeria is gearing up to host the prestigious 3rd edition of the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) African U18/U20 combined Championships in Abeokuta, Ogun State, this July, following an inspection visit by CAA officials this week.
The delegates arrived between Wednesday and Thursday to assess the readiness of key venues, including the MKO Abiola Stadium, as well as accommodation and medical facilities for the athletes and officials.
Their visit comes as part of final preparations ahead of the championships scheduled for July 16 to 20, 2025.
Chief Tonobok Okowa, President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) and Vice President of the CAA, provided insight into the organisation of the event.
Speaking to the media Okowa explained his decision to step aside from the Local Organising Committee (LOC), citing his multiple critical roles: “First and foremost, I’m an executive member of CAA as well as the leader of Team Nigeria to the competition.
Since CAA is the owner of the event, it would not be appropriate for me to serve on the LOC, especially considering how demanding and critical my roles are to the success of the championship.”
READ MORE:nwfl-raises-super-6-prize-pool-to-%e2%82%a624-5m-as-title-race-heats-up
Okowa also clarified the composition of the LOC, saying, “I nominated all AFN board members included in the LOC list announced recently. If any board member is not listed, it’s because they are involved in key preparations for Team Nigeria’s performance at the championship.”
He drew a parallel to a previous experience, noting, “During the 2018 Senior Africa Athletics Championship in Asaba, Delta State, the then AFN President, Ibrahim Shehu Gusau, was similarly not part of the LOC, having been focused on Team Nigeria’s management.”
The event was originally set to take place in Oran, Algeria, after Madagascar was first awarded hosting rights in 2024. However, logistical changes led to the relocation to Abeokuta, which has now been confirmed as the host city.
The CAA statement affirmed, “In agreement with Nigeria, these events will now be held in Abeokuta City, Ogun State. The originally scheduled dates remain unchanged, with only slight adjustments.”
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
Expectations are high for the championships, which will gather over 500 of Africa’s top young athletes vying for continental honours and a chance to showcase their talents on a broader stage.
The visit by the inspection team coincides with their planned attendance at the opening ceremony of Nigeria’s 22nd National Sports Festival, further underscoring the country’s commitment to sporting excellence.
Key dates for the championships include the CAA Council Meeting on July 13, followed by the Congress on July 14–15, a Technical Meeting on July 15, and the athletics competition from July 16 to 20.
