By Akanimo kufre
Youthful talents numbering up to 3,220 from 375 schools and teams are set to compete across two venues in Ibadan from April 14 to 17. A total of 8,243 event entries have been received, underlining the scale and growing influence of Nigeria’s premier secondary schools athletics competition.
Ibadan will host MTN CHAMPS for the third time, having previously staged the event in Seasons 1 and 2, further cementing its status as a key hub for grassroots athletics development in the country. Two Venues, One Grand Stage.
The competition will run simultaneously across the Lekan Salami Stadium and the University of Ibadan Sports Complex, ensuring a seamless and high-quality experience for athletes and spectators alike. All four age categories will compete at the Lekan Salami Stadium on Days 1 and 4.
Meanwhile, Cadet (U-14) and Youth (U-17) athletes will take center stage at the University of Ibadan Sports Complex on Days 2 and 3. The Junior (U-20) and senior athletes will remain at the Lekan Salami Stadium throughout the duration of the competition and will be rejoined by the Cadets and Youths on Day 4. MVPs Set for Final Showdown.
As in previous editions, the spotlight will also be on the 20 Most Valuable Performers (MVPs) selected from the earlier legs of the season in Calabar and Jos. These standout athletes will go head-to-head with the best emerging talents from across the country, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to what has already been a landmark season.
A group of five athletes from Akwa Ibom State, comprising Comfort James, Odot Enefiok, and three others, have been encouraged by prominent athletics Coach Daniel Umoette to prioritize proven tactics in pursuit of victory.
Coach Umoette also expressed appreciation to the organizers of the compilation, Making of Champions, and MTN for providing a valuable platform that keeps young athletes engaged. ‘We don’t receive regular activities from the Federation, so this initiative is truly valued for its impact on athletes’ performance and its potential to launch emerging talents
