Sports
Hosting African U18/U20 Athletics Championship a Big Win for Nigeria – NSC DG Bukola Olopade
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has described Nigeria’s hosting of the 3rd African U18/U20 Athletics Championship as a “win-win” for the nation’s sporting development and economy.
Speaking at a world press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, Olopade—who also chairs the Local Organizing Committee—highlighted the significance of Nigeria stepping in to host the championship after Algeria withdrew.
The event is scheduled to hold in Abeokuta, Ogun State, from July 16 to 20, 2025.
According to him, the Federal Government’s decision aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda to transform Nigeria into a hub for international sports events.
“We’re shifting from just sending athletes abroad to hosting major competitions here at home. This helps in building local capacity, creating opportunities for small businesses, and improving sports infrastructure across the country,” Olopade said.
He credited NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko for securing hosting rights during a visit to Algeria, where the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) sought a new host.
Olopade assured that preparations are in full swing, covering accommodation, transportation, feeding, technical support, and media logistics. “We are on course to deliver a world-class event that reinforces Nigeria’s reputation as Africa’s sports powerhouse,” he added.
He also expressed hope that the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) will use the event to unearth fresh talent ahead of major competitions like the Islamic Games, Commonwealth Games, and the Los Angeles Olympics.
So far, 583 athletes from 30 countries have confirmed participation, with the number expected to rise to 900 as more entries come in.
Sports
“Aderonke Atoyebi Wins Big in Denmark, Inspires Global Recognition for Nigerian Women in Sports
Joel Ajayi
Nigeria’s own Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi has brought immense pride to the nation after being named the International Sport and Culture Association (ISCA) Role Model of the Year at a ceremony held in Copenhagen, Denmark.
The biennial ISCA Awards honour individuals and organizations that use sports and physical activity as tools for social change, inclusion, and empowerment across the globe. This year’s edition drew nominations from several countries, spotlighting outstanding figures who have transformed their communities through the power of sports.
Atoyebi’s unwavering commitment to gender equality and youth empowerment has made her a prominent voice in the sports-for-development space. Through her advocacy and leadership, she continues to demonstrate how sports can serve as a bridge for education, unity, and hope—especially among young women in Nigeria and beyond.
As part of the recognition, Atoyebi received a €3,000 cash prize along with the global visibility that accompanies the prestigious ISCA honour.
Speaking shortly after receiving the award, she expressed deep gratitude and excitement, dedicating the recognition to her team and everyone who has supported her journey.
> “This award means a lot to me. It’s a testament to the hard work my team and I have put in over the years,” Atoyebi said. “Being recognised on such an international stage proves that no effort toward positive change ever goes unnoticed. It motivates me to keep pushing boundaries and reaching more girls who need hope and opportunity.”
Atoyebi’s global recognition further strengthens Nigeria’s growing influence in the global dialogue around sports, development, and women’s empowerment. Her story continues to inspire a new generation of African women to believe that with passion, dedication, and purpose, they too can create lasting change.
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