With just weeks to go until the 2024 Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) U-18 and U-20 Championships, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) has formally rolled out a comprehensive structure of sub-committees to ensure the successful hosting of the continental event scheduled to hold from July 16 to 20 in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The LOC, chaired by the Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, is moving at full speed despite the limited preparation time, assuring Nigerians and the African athletics community of a seamless and memorable experience.
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> “The little time for preparations notwithstanding, we are committed to delivering a hitch-free CAA U-18/U-20 Championships,” Olopade said, adding that the LOC had assembled a crop of seasoned professionals and sport industry leaders to lead critical sub-committees.
The sub-committees span every facet of the championships — from technical oversight to accommodation, security, transportation, medical services, marketing, and media engagement — reflecting the LOC’s holistic approach to planning.
Olympian Enefiok Udo-Obong leads the Technical Committee, bringing his athletic pedigree and organizational expertise to the fore. The Media and Publicity Committee, chaired by veteran journalist Gowon Akpodonor, features a strong team of sport journalists and digital media experts to drive local and international coverage.
The event’s branding and global positioning are entrusted to Chichi Nwoko and Osaze Ebueku, who co-chair the Marketing, Branding, and Communication Committee, while top medical personnel led by Dr. Paul Onyeudo will oversee athlete wellness and anti-doping measures.
A diverse and inclusive list of professionals, former athletes, and government representatives populate other key committees including Accommodation (led by Musa Amadu), Security (chaired by Olympian Fidelis Gadzama), Feeding, Transport, Liaison, Finance, Ceremonials/Entertainment, and Secretariat/Accreditation.
Co-opted members like Arabirin Aderonke Atoyebi and Maria Wophil, who serve on multiple committees, underscore the LOC’s strategic use of experienced hands for protocol, coordination, and volunteer management.
> “This is not just a Nigerian event. It is Africa’s event, and we are determined to host a championship that sets a new standard,” said Olopade.
The Abeokuta championship is expected to attract hundreds of young athletes from across the continent, many of whom are considered future stars of world athletics. As preparations enter the final lap, the LOC’s detailed planning and strategic appointments signal a strong intent to deliver a tournament that showcases Nigeria’s organizational capacity and sporting hospitality.
 U-18 and U-20 Championships, the Local Organising Committee (LOC)){kind=link}