Athletics Championship Hosting Boosts Sports, Economy — Olopade

By Nonso Arinze

The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has described Nigeria’s hosting of the 3rd African U18/U20 Athletics Championship as a “win-win” for the country’s sports development and economic growth.

Addressing a world press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, Olopade who also serves as Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) emphasized the strategic importance of Nigeria stepping in to host the championship, following Algeria’s withdrawal. The event will take place in Abeokuta, Ogun State, from July 16 to 20, 2025.

“This aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to position Nigeria as a global hub for sports,” Olopade said.

“We’re moving from merely sending athletes abroad to becoming a destination for top-tier international competitions. This shift boosts local capacity, stimulates small businesses, and accelerates the development of sports infrastructure.”

Olopade credited NSC Chairman, Shehu Dikko, for securing the hosting rights during a visit to Algeria, where the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) was in search of a new host nation.

He affirmed that preparations are well underway, with key logistics including accommodation, transportation, feeding, technical operations, and media coverage being finalized.

“We are committed to delivering a world-class event that will further cement Nigeria’s status as Africa’s sporting powerhouse,” he assured.

Olopade also expressed optimism that the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) will leverage the championship to identify and nurture new talents for upcoming global events such as the Islamic Games, Commonwealth Games, and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

As of now, 583 athletes from 30 countries have confirmed participation, with the number expected to rise to 900 as more entries are received.