Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adeboye Anthony Adeyinka (Zulu Authority), yesterday graced the media conference at the ongoing Combined African U18/U20 Athletics Championships in Abeokuta, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to youth development through sports.
The high-profile event, taking place at the MKO Abiola International Stadium from July 16–20, has drawn participation from over 40 African countries, showcasing the continent’s brightest young athletic talents in 45 U20 and 40 U18 events.
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Team Nigeria is represented by 92 athletes (51 boys and 41 girls), and has emerged as one of the top contenders alongside South Africa and Kenya.
Speaking at the conference, SSA Adeboye lauded the seamless organization of the championship, attributing its success to the visionary leadership of Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, and Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director General of the Commission, who also serves as the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) Chairman for the championship.
“This is a huge milestone for African youth sports, and Nigeria is proud to host such a powerful gathering of talent,” Adeboye said. “I want to commend Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade for their exceptional leadership. The effort to put this together shows how serious we are about sports development.”
He emphasized that youth are not just leaders of tomorrow but vital contributors to today’s nation-building, urging continued support for initiatives that engage them positively.
Adeboye also used the occasion to rally national support ahead of next week’s Africa Armwrestling Championship in Abuja, where he also serves as the LOC Chairman.
“With just four days to go, we need all hands on deck. Government can’t do it alone. We need the private sector, communities, and sports lovers to join us in giving our youth the platform to excel,” he said.
The SSA further hinted at the need for increased financial support to ensure Nigeria delivers a world-class event in Abuja.
“These championships are about more than medals—they’re about building a future. I urge Nigerians to support our athletes with everything they can. Let’s show Africa that we stand behind our champions.”
Adeboye’s presence in Abeokuta reaffirms the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda on youth and grassroots development, which places sports at the heart of empowerment and national unity.
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