No fewer than 3000 athletes from 375 secondary schools are geared to compete in the MTN Making of CHAMPS Season 4, the organisers have said.
The General Manager, Consumer Segment. MTN, Idowu Adesokan, disclosed this at a news conference held on Monday in Ibadan to herald the finals of the athletics competition.
The event is scheduled to hold from April 14 to April 17 at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan
Adesokan also said that MTN for CHAMPS Season 4 has introduced a N20 million regional grant to be shared among the participating schools.
“This is an initiative designed to drive grassroots sports development, boost participation, and reward outstanding institutional performance,” he said.
The General Manager futther said that Oyo state has consistently delivered the highest number of participants across previous editions.
“This year is no exception with over 3,000 athletes registered.
“The city has also produced standout talents such as Samuel Adejumo, Emmanuel Oyewale, Azeezat Muhammad Raji, and Toheebat Jimoh – further reinforcing its importance in Nigeria’s athletics ecosystem.
“Talent is universal, opportunity is not always accessible.
“We are proud to bridge that gap-by creating platforms that empower young athletes, unlock potential, and build a future where dreams are not only imagined, but realised,” he said.
Adesokan said that in 2023 MTN launched CHAMPS with a clear and deliberate vision to discover, nurture, and develop young athletic talents.
He said that the goal was to build future Olympians for Nigeria.
“We have remained steadfast in that commitment, and the journey has been nothing short of remarkable.
“Across the country, we have witnessed young athletes push their limits, defy the odds, and inspire us with their resilience, discipline, and determination on track and field.
“These performances continue to reaffirm our belief that Nigeria is rich with untapped athletic potential-waiting for the right platform to emerge,” he said.
According to him, through this initiative, MTN has identified and selected 30 exceptional athletes as MTN CHAMPS Most Valuable Players.
“Many of them are here with us today. These athletes are currently enrolled in a specialised academy and on a two-year scholarship.
“They are receiving structured coaching and world-class training to prepare them for future international competitions,” he said.
Also, Bambo Akanni, Founder of Making Of Champions said that 14 competitions have been held within the three seasons.
Akanni said that 375 teams from about 3000 applications were received for this edition in Ibadan.
In her remarks, the Oyo Stare Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke said that the initiative aligns perfectly with the state’s vision to nurture young talents and promote sports development.
Adegoke said that by identifying and supporting talented athletes, MTN MoC is re-igniting grassroots athletics and paving the way for Nigeria to shine globally.
“Young athletes, this platform is yours to own.
“Believe in yourself, work hard, and dream big. With elite training, scholarships, and international opportunities, the world is within your reach,” she said.
The commissioner said that Oyo State was proud to host this celebration of youth sports.
“ Let’s make this edition unforgettable! Thank you, MTN, for empowering champions. Let’s keep pushing boundaries.
“The successful hosting and expansion of initiatives like MTN CHAMPS has been greatly supported by the state government through sustainable investment in sports development and youth empowerment,” she said.
