Abeokuta set to host 3rd Africa U-18 & U-20 Athletics Championship
Abeokuta is poised to host the 3rd Africa U18/U20 Athletics Championships, with the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) fully endorsing the facilities in Ogun State.
The championships are set to occur from July 16 to 20, 2025.
A four-member delegation from the CAA recently completed a thorough inspection of the host city, expressing confidence in Nigeria's readiness for this significant continental sporting event.
The team, led by CAA Director General Lamine Faty from Senegal, included Technical and Development Director Aziz Daouda, along with Lombard Melinda Amana and Maraire Munyaradzi Nkosasa Wilbert.
Upon their arrival in Nigeria, the delegation commenced their evaluation at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta, which is currently the venue for the 22nd National Sports Festival.
The arena's newly installed tartan track received commendations from the inspection team. Additionally, the CAA officials visited 12 hotels in Abeokuta to assess the accommodation arrangements for over 800 anticipated participants, including athletes, officials, and media representatives from 54 African nations.
The hotels inspected included Green Legacy Resort, Academy Suites, AA Entertainment and Tourism, Metro Hotel, Keem Hotel, Richton Hotel, Continental Hotel, Abiis Hotel, IBD International, and H3 Hotel. Lamine Faty stated during a press briefing at Conference Hotel, Abeokuta, "All facilities inspected met or exceeded our expectations."
He added, "Aside from a minor issue regarding water supply in one hotel, we are very pleased with the level of preparedness. Ogun State is ready to welcome Africa."
The inspection was facilitated by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), with President Tonobok Okowa and Secretary General Israel Inwang in attendance.
Shagaya Abdulmumeen, Secretary of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), representing LOC Chairman Hon. Bukola Olopade, reiterated the commitment of both the Nigerian government and the Ogun State administration to ensure a successful event.