MKO Abiola Stadium Gets Facelift To Host CAA U18/U20 Championships

The MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta, Ogun State, has undergone significant renovations in preparation to host the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) U18/U20 Championships, scheduled to take place from 16th to 20th July 2025.

Enefiok Udo-Obong, chairman of the Technical Sub-Committee of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), announced yesterday that the stadium — which hosted the 22nd National Sports Festival in May 2025—will be upgraded to meet world-class standards for track and field events.

During a recent visit by a CAA delegation to the complex prior to the Gateway Games, the warm-up tracks and throwing facilities were highlighted as key areas for improvement.

Udo-Obong, an Olympic gold medallist from the Sydney 2000 Games, confirmed that work on these facilities is already underway and is expected to be completed shortly.

“The stadium and throwing pitch in particular are taking a new face lift. Construction of new and world class throwing area are underway. There is also a very conducive warm area taking shape.

“I want to make sure it is done in a standard that can host the best of athletics competition anywhere,” he said.

He emphasised the commitment of the technical committee to ensure that all necessary facilities and equipment meet the required standards for the championships.

L”Our aim is to create an environment that not only allows athletes to compete at their best but also reflects our capability to host prestigious events,” Udo-Obong added.

Approximately 53 African countries are anticipated to participate in the four-day championship, with preparations intensifying as the event approaches. “Our goal is to provide an excellent atmosphere for the athletes while leaving a lasting impression of our organisational skills,” he concluded.