Congo kicks off team arrivals for African U-18/U-20 Championships in Nigeria
The Democratic Republic of Congo has become the first country to arrive in Nigeria for the 3rd edition of the African U-18/U-20 Athletics Championships, scheduled to hold from July 16 to 20, 2025, at the MKO Abiola International Stadium, Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The Congolese delegation touched down at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, in the early hours of Saturday, marking the official start of team arrivals for the highly anticipated continental event.
Members of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), led by Head of Protocol, Arabirin Aderonke, received the team with a warm and seamless welcome. The athletes were ushered through immigration and transportation procedures with traditional Nigerian hospitality and efficiency.
“We are excited to receive the first set of athletes arriving for the championship,” said Aderonke. “This marks the beginning of what promises to be a historic and memorable competition. Our protocol teams are fully mobilised at all entry points to ensure a smooth experience for every delegation.”
She emphasised that the LOC, under the guidance of the National Sports Commission, remains committed to delivering excellence across all operational areas, including reception, logistics, security, and accommodation.
The 3rd African U-18/U-20 Athletics Championships will feature over 40 participating countries, with elite youth athletes competing for glory in a wide range of track and field events.
Organised by the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA), the championship is being hosted in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Sports Development, the Ogun State Government, and major sponsors including the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Bank of Industry (BOI), and LEDCO Limited.
All competition activities will take place at the MKO Abiola International Stadium, which has undergone significant upgrades to host Africa’s premier youth athletics championship.
