The much-anticipated 3rd African U18/U20 Athletics Championships officially kicked off with the arrival on Saturday of the first batch of athletes at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

Touching down in the early hours of Saturday were athletes from the Democratic Republic of Congo, becoming the first international country to arrive for the continental showpiece taking place in Abeokuta, Nigeria.

The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) protocol team, led by Arabirin Aderonke Atoyebi, Head of Protocol, ensured a seamless and heartwarming welcome for the Congolese contingent.

The athletes were received with smiles, Nigerian hospitality, and swift coordination as they were ushered through arrival procedures.

Atoyebi said, “We are excited to receive the first set of athletes arriving for the championship.” “This marks the beginning of what promises to be a historic and memorable competition. Our protocol teams are fully mobilized at the airports to ensure a smooth experience for all arriving delegations, as the National Sports Commission had demanded excellence from every subcommittee in the LOC.”

The African U18/U20 Athletics Championships will feature elite young athletes from over 40 African countries competing for continental glory. All activities will take place at the MKO Abiola International Stadium, Abeokuta, from July 16 to 20, 2025.