Valentine Chiemelie, one of Nigeria’s rising stars in the javelin event, has expressed excitement and pride as he prepares to represent the country at the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) U-18/U-20 Championships scheduled to take place in Abeokuta, Ogun State, from July 16 to 20, 2025.
Chiemelie, who impressed at the National Trials in Shagamu, described the upcoming continental showpiece as a dream come true and vowed to make the most of the opportunity.
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“I’m happy to be representing Nigeria on the continental stage. I’m a bit nervous because it’s my first time wearing the national colours, but I will definitely make my presence felt,” Chiemelie said on Saturday.
The young javelin thrower said his preparation for the trials began shortly after he competed at the MTN Championship Grand Finale Season 3, where he clinched a bronze medal in the javelin event.
“After the MTN Championship, I was so happy and motivated. I went straight into training for the National Trials. Although it wasn’t intense at first, I thank God I qualified. He has been my backbone through it all,” he added.
Valentine Chiemelie also commended the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) and the National Sports Commission (NSC) for organizing a pre-championship training camp, describing it as an essential part of the athletes’ development.
“The camp has been amazing. The accommodation is excellent, the feeding is great, and the training has been exceptional. It’s been a wonderful experience,” he stated.
Over 700 athletes from across the continent are expected to compete at the CAA U-18/U-20 Championship in Abeokuta, making it one of the largest age-grade athletics competitions on the African calendar.
