The 3rd CAA U18/U20 African Athletics Championships concluded in spectacular fashion on Sunday, July 20, at the iconic MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, Ogun State, with a pulsating fusion of African music, culture, and elite youth athletics marking the final day of a truly unforgettable continental celebration.

The closing ceremony, which drew thousands of spectators and dignitaries, reached a fever pitch as Nigerian music superstars KCee and 9ice delivered electrifying Afrobeat performances that lit up the night. The crowd erupted in joy as the chart-topping artists brought their signature energy, combining lyrical dexterity with booming rhythms to send the championship off in style.

On the track, fans were treated to high-octane competition as the final medals were decided. Team Nigeria, cheered on by a roaring home crowd, pushed hard in a last-minute dash to top the medals table. However, South Africa maintained its lead to emerge overall champions, securing the most medals and asserting their dominance in youth athletics on the continent.

Despite not topping the final standings, Team Nigeria had several standout moments, especially in the relays. The women’s U20 4x400m relay team delivered one of the day’s highlights, blazing to gold in a commanding fashion. The quartet of Odot Udoh, Toheebat Jimoh, Anita Enaruna, and Favour Onyah passed the baton with precision and power, beating strong teams from South Africa and Zimbabwe to bring the crowd to its feet.

Reflecting on the successful hosting of the championship, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, praised the seamless organization and the unity demonstrated throughout the tournament.

“This championship was more than a sporting event; it was a celebration of Africa’s youth, energy, and future,” Dikko said. “From the competition to the culture, it was a masterpiece in every sense. We thank the CAA, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Ogun State Government, and the entire LOC led by Hon. Bukola Olopade who made this vision a reality.”

Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director General of the LOC and a former commissioner for sports in Ogun State, echoed the sentiments, expressing pride in how Abeokuta rose to the occasion.

“We’ve not only proven our capacity to host world-class sporting events but have also set a new standard for youth championships across the continent,” Olopade stated. “The energy, the culture, the unity — this is what Africa stands for. Our gratitude goes to the Chairman of the NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, and His Excellency, Governor Dapo Abiodun, for their immense support.”

The week-long competition featured over 35 African countries competing across various disciplines in both U18 and U20 categories. From sprints and hurdles to jumps and throws, Africa’s next generation of athletic stars thrilled fans with dazzling performances and sportsmanship.

Throughout the tournament, Abeokuta earned praise for its warmth, hospitality, and vibrant celebration of African identity. Cultural displays, drumming, and traditional dances blended seamlessly with the competitive events, offering athletes and visitors a deep taste of Yoruba and Nigerian culture.

With top-level logistics, security, and fan engagement, the championships have been widely hailed as a model for future continental youth competitions.

In his parting words, Mallam Dikko emphasized the legacy of the tournament for Nigerian sports and Africa at large.

“What we have done here is not just host a tournament — we have inspired a continent. These young athletes will remember Abeokuta not just for medals, but for the belief that Africa can host and shine on any global stage.”

As the stadium lights dimmed and the flags were lowered, the 2025 African U18 and U20 Athletics Championships ended not just as a sporting event, but as a milestone in African youth empowerment, sports development, and cultural celebration.

The spirit of Abeokuta 2025 will live on — in the memories of the athletes, in the hearts of the fans, and in the future of African athletics.