Uyo set to host MTN Champs Season 3 grand finale as over 2,000 athletes converge

The grand finale of MTN Champs Season 3, Nigeria’s largest grassroots athletics competition, is set to take place in Uyo from May 6 to 9 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium. This climactic event follows successful qualifying rounds in Benin City and Lagos, which recorded over 4,500 entries.

Organisers said at a briefing  on May 5 that a record 5,807 entries from 2,187 athletes have been registered for the Uyo final. 

The participants span multiple age categories, including 464 Cadets, 777 Youths, 426 Juniors, and 520 Seniors, reflecting the nationwide reach and growing popularity of the initiative.

The competition officially kicked off with a vibrant flag run through Uyo, symbolically carrying the MTN Champs flag across major city landmarks—from the Government House to Wellington Bassey Way, Oron Road, Uyo Plaza, and finally the stadium. The run showcased community spirit and youth empowerment, with local athletes taking turns to carry the flag while skaters and a music convoy energized the city.

Speaking on the initiative, Emmamoke Ogoro, General Manager, Brand and Communications at MTN Nigeria, emphasised the company’s long-term vision. “The dream of seeing Nigeria thrive on the world stage drives MTN Champs. We’re committed to grassroots development as a way of unlocking the potential of our youth,” she said. Since its 2023 launch, MTN Champs has engaged over 15,000 athletes from 900 schools nationwide.

• Read Also: MTN Champs Season 3 closes in style as young stars shine in Lagos

The competition has already begun producing tangible results. Twenty outstanding athletes discovered through previous editions are currently enrolled at a sports academy in Lagos on full scholarships. Callima Inino, Regional General Manager, Operations (East), MTN Nigeria, noted that the initiative provides “Education, Exposure, and Experience” to prepare these young athletes for international competition, with long-term goals including Olympic participation.

Deji Ogeyingbo, Country Manager of Making of Champions (MoC), which co-organises the competition, explained the strategic choice of Akwa Ibom as host city: “We want every Nigerian child to have this opportunity, and Akwa Ibom has proven its commitment to youth development. We were here in Season 1, and returning for the finale was a clear decision.”

The grand finale will also feature 40 Most Valuable Performers (MVPs) selected from earlier events in Benin and Lagos. These athletes—20 from each city—represent 30 schools across 10 states and will compete as Team MVPs in Uyo, aiming for final selection into the MoC Academy.

Representing the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Sports Commissioner Elder Paul Bassey praised the event’s alignment with the state’s sports development agenda. “We are committed to grassroots sports. For years, Nigeria dominated international sprints and relays, and with initiatives like MTN Champs, we can restore that legacy,” he said. Bassey also revealed that plans are underway to establish a state-of-the-art sports academy in Akwa Ibom to further nurture athletic talent.

MTN’s Chief Marketing Officer, Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, added, “MTN Champs is not just a competition—it’s a growing platform that is transforming the future of athletics in Nigeria. We are proud to support initiatives that empower young Nigerians and inspire national pride.”

Supported by the Akwa Ibom State Government, the Nigeria School Sports Federation (NSSF), and the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), the MTN Champs Uyo finale is expected to deliver a high-energy celebration of youth, talent, and sportsmanship. Ten top-performing athletes will be inducted into the prestigious MoC Academy, gaining access to scholarships, mentorship, and international competition opportunities.

The post Uyo set to host MTN Champs Season 3 grand finale as over 2,000 athletes converge appeared first on Sporting Life.