Director-General, National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade making a point during the press conference on the ongoing CAA African Championship, at Media Centre of, MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Abeokuta, Ogun State

The Director General, National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, has reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to grassroots sports development, stressing that the championship has showcased impressive performances across the board and served as a valuable platform for future athletic talents.

He made this statement during a press conference held at the ongoing 3rd African U18 and U20 Athletics Championship, currently taking place in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.

Olopade noted that Nigeria’s focus remains on creating more opportunities for young athletes to thrive, compete, and develop into world-class performers. He emphasized that the Commission is committed to sustaining and expanding investment in youth athletics, school sports programs, and talent discovery at the community level.

The Director General also acknowledged the support and cooperation received from the Ogun State Government, the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA), and various stakeholders across the continent, describing the collaboration as a shining example of what African unity and sports diplomacy can achieve.

“This championship is not just a competition it is a celebration of African youth, resilience, and unity,” he remarked.

In his brief remarks, the Senior Special Assistant to President, on Grassroots Sports Development, Adeyinka Adeboye stated that the President remains committed to grassroots sports development as a tool to national unity, talent discovery and economic growth.

He commended Nigeria's hosting efforts and applauds the organisers'hard work and dedication and noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration is working closely with stakeholders to sustain the momentum across all levels.

The press conference, convened to clarify concerns over the Republic of South Africa's decision to opt out of the athletes' official camp in favour of private hotel accommodation near the competition venue, brought together key figures in African athletics who offered clarity and commended Nigeria’s organization of the event.

The Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa Athletics Federation, Mr. John Motame, explained that the move was purely tactical and had no political undertone. He emphasized that their team is in Nigeria solely for sports, not politics.

He appreciated Nigeria’s spirit of sportsmanship and affirmed that their choice was made strictly for performance-related reasons. “Politics should be left to politicians, and sports to sportsmen and women,” he added.

In his remarks, the Technical Director of the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA), Mr. Lamine Faty expressed profound gratitude to Nigeria for agreeing to host the tournament with less than two months’ notice.

He acknowledged that while no event is ever perfect, the efforts by the Nigerian organizers were commendable. “The planning was fantastic and acceptable by CAA,” he noted.

Also speaking, the Chairman, Technical Committee of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Mr. Enefiong Udo Obong, emphasized the numerous commendations received from both local and international observers.

He reaffirmed that, given the short time frame, Nigeria has done exceptionally well, and urged all stakeholders to focus on the positives and the progress being made.

The championship continues with high expectations, as young athletes from across Africa compete with passion and pride, while Nigeria continues to win hearts for its hospitality and organizational resilience.

Dr. (Mrs.) Kehinde Ajayi, FCAI, ANIPR

Director, Information and Public Relations

July 20, 2025