The stage is set for the third edition of the CAA U18/U20 African Athletics Championship, as 35 African countries have landed in Nigeria, gearing up for the continental showdown in Abeokuta.

The latest contingents—Algeria and Morocco—touched down on Monday night, joining a star-studded roster of nations ready to compete.

The championship will take place at the MKO Abiola International Stadium, Abeokuta, from July 16 to 20, 2025. With just one day to go, excitement is reaching a fever pitch across the city as delegations from South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Ghana, Egypt, and others settle in for what promises to be a thrilling display of youth athletics.

Nigeria, as host nation, has put all logistics in place to deliver a world-class competition, with security, protocol, transportation, and accommodation measures fully activated for athletes and officials.

The host city has been bubbling with energy, as cultural troupes continue to showcase Nigeria’s rich heritage. North African delegations, among others, have been visibly thrilled—many even joining traditional dances to soak up the atmosphere and celebration.

Meanwhile, the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) held its congress meeting at the Confluence Hotel, where key deliberations were made on the future of African athletics.

The session was presided over by CAA President, Hamad Kalkaba Malboum, with discussions focused on reforms, sustainability, and strengthening the global competitiveness of African athletes.

The congress forms a strategic part of championship week, reinforcing that this event is not just about medals, but also about policymaking, leadership, and a forward-looking vision for the sport across the continent.

For over a decade, Akwa Ibom has stood as the beating heart of Nigerian sports — a modern-day Mecca for athletic excellence. From hosting international Super Eagles fixtures at the iconic Godswill Akpabio Stadium to staging major national tournaments, the state has consistently led by example.

Now, Ogun State is stepping boldly into the spotlight, fast becoming a rising force in Nigerian sports with its own cutting-edge infrastructure. In recent times, it has hosted the Super Falcons, the Flying Eagles, the National Sports Festival, and now, the prestigious CAA African Athletics Championship—firmly placing Abeokuta on the continental map.