The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has expressed confidence that the upcoming African U18/U20 Athletics Championship will serve as a major platform for discovering Nigeria’s next generation of sporting stars, Afrosport reports.
Olopade said the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) is expected to use the competition to scout and develop new talents who could go on to represent the country in international events, including the Islamic Games, Commonwealth Games, and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
At a press conference held in Abuja on Wednesday, Olopade provided updates on Nigeria’s preparations to host the championship set to take place from 16-20 July 2025, in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
“This is not just about hosting another competition,” Olopade said. “It’s about building a foundation for long-term success by investing in young athletes and strengthening our sporting structures.”
The championship, now in its third edition, was originally scheduled to be held in Algeria. However, after the North African nation’s withdrawal, Nigeria stepped in to take on hosting duties, an opportunity Olopade described as a “win-win” for the country’s sports development and economic prospects.
He noted that the Federal Government’s approval of the event aligns with the “Renewed Hope Agenda”, which aims to make Nigeria a hub for major international sports events.
“We’re shifting from just sending athletes abroad to creating opportunities right here at home,” he added. “This championship will boost local capacity, generate jobs, support small businesses, and accelerate infrastructure growth especially in the host city.”
Olopade, who is also the chairman Local Organising Committee, praised the efforts of NSC Chairman, Shehu Dikko, for securing the hosting rights during a visit to Algeria, where the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) was seeking a replacement host.
According to him, preparations are well underway, with arrangements in place for accommodation, transportation, catering, technical support, and media coverage. He assured that the championship will meet international standards and reflect Nigeria’s reputation as a continental sports powerhouse.
So far, 583 athletes from 30 countries have confirmed their participation, with the figure expected to rise to over 900 as final entries are received.
