It was a colorful and energetic start to the Confederation of African Athletics U18 and U20 Championships in Abeokuta, as the newly refurbished MKO Abiola International Stadium welcomed athletes from across the continent.
The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, says the successful hosting of the event further cements Ogun State’s position as an international hub for sports development.
Olopade praised Governor Abiodun for turning vision into reality, noting that recent investments in facilities are not only elevating Ogun’s profile but also aligning with President Tinubu’s national sports strategy.
On day one, the main bowl came alive with thrilling performances. South Africa and host country Nigeria dominated early events, especially in the sprints and field competitions.
Nigeria’s Praise Ikweki secured the country’s first medal, a bronze in the high jump. He scaled a height of 2.03 meters before narrowly missing 2.06m, which handed gold to South Africa’s Mateo Le Roux.
Meanwhile in the U18 boys’ 100m heats, South Africa’s Mukona Manavhela finished first with a time of 11.38 seconds. Nigeria’s James Clifford followed closely in 11.44 seconds, qualifying for the semi-finals.
In the girls’ category, Nigeria’s Mariam Jegede sprinted to victory in Heat One, clocking 12.13 seconds. She was followed by Congo’s Boukama Gladys and Ghana’s Darkoah Kwateng.
