43 African Nations to storm Abeokuta for 2025 Youth Athletics Championships

Excitement is gathering in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, as it prepares to host the 3rd African Under-18 and Under-20 Athletics Championships from July 16 to 20, 2025.

A total of 43 countries have confirmed their participation in the highly anticipated continental event, with no fewer than 937 athletes and officials already registered.

According to a statement released on Thursday by the National Sports Commission, Africa’s top athletics nations—Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Egypt—will be present at the competition. Other countries such as Ghana, Algeria, Morocco, Cameroon, Senegal, and Uganda have also signed up to compete.

Nigeria, as the host country, will parade the largest delegation, comprising 60 male and 50 female athletes alongside 22 officials, making a total of 132 members. South Africa follows closely with 42 male and 40 female athletes and 18 officials, bringing their team to 100 participants.

The championship is expected to showcase the best of African youth athletics and further strengthen sports development on the continent.