Nigeria will present the largest team at the upcoming African U18/U20 Athletics Championships scheduled to take place in Abeokuta, Ogun State, from July 16 to 20, 2025.

According to the National Sports Commission (NSC), the country will be represented by 110 athletes—60 male and 50 female—supported by 22 officials. The five-day championship, sanctioned by the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA), is expected to bring together 937 athletes and officials from 43 African countries.

The tournament will be held at the recently refurbished MKO Abiola Sports Arena, with participating nations including South Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya, Algeria, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, Cameroon, and Uganda. South Africa is set to send a 100-member delegation, making it the second largest after the host nation.

Organisers said preparations in Abeokuta are nearing completion, with logistics, accommodation, and transportation arrangements being finalised. The event marks another major hosting opportunity for Ogun State, following the 2024 National Sports Festival held in May, which brought over 15,000 participants to the city.

Officials from the Ogun State government noted that the earlier festival helped test infrastructure and personnel ahead of this continental competition.

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) views the home advantage as an opportunity to deliver strong performances across various events. The championship also serves as a platform for emerging athletes to gain experience and visibility as they prepare for future international competitions.

In addition to the athletic events, the African U18/U20 Championships will include the CAA Congress, drawing administrative and technical officials from across the continent.

The competition is expected to attract attention from talent scouts, coaches, and national federations monitoring Africa’s next generation of sprinters, jumpers, and throwers.