The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has formally extended invitations to 90 junior athletes to participate in a national training camp in anticipation of the upcoming Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) U-20 and U-18 Championships, which are scheduled to take place in Abeokuta, Ogun State, from July 16 to 20, 2025.
The three-week camp is structured to enhance the athletes’ physical preparedness, refine technical competencies, and foster team cohesion—particularly within the relay squads—as part of Nigeria’s strategic objective to secure a leading position at the continental event being hosted on home soil.
In a statement regarding the initiative, AFN President, Chief Tonobok Okowa, confirmed that the athletes will commence training immediately upon arrival at the camp. He further disclosed that competitive trials will be conducted during the course of the camp in order to finalize selection of the national team.
“These athletes will be invited to camp, and training will commence. Trials will be done after some time to enable the coaches to choose those that will represent Nigeria,” Chief Okowa stated.
AFN President Chief Tonobok Okowa underscored that while the federation is intent on achieving a competitive showing at the forthcoming championships, its broader mandate is to facilitate developmental exposure and international experience for Nigeria’s emerging athletic talent.
“This is an opportunity for our future stars to compete against the best on the continent, and also learn the discipline and commitment required at this level,” Chief Okowa stated, highlighting the dual objective of performance and growth.
The 2025 edition of the CAA U-20/U-18 Championships marks the first major international competition undertaken during the tenure of the current AFN executive board. As host nation, Nigeria aims to capitalize on home-field advantage to galvanize the athletes and inspire a new generation of elite competitors on the African stage.#newsafro_
