The Lagos chapter of MTN Champs Season 3 came to an exciting close on Saturday, April 12, after four intense days of track and field action hosted at Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech) and the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
From sprints to jumps, young athletes put on a show of talent, determination, and passion. Among the standout performances were Lucy Nwankwo’s victory in the 100m junior women’s race, Iyanuoluwa Bada’s speed in the senior women’s 100m, and Favor Ashe’s dominance in the men’s 100m senior category. Thirteen-year-old Micheal Odogu also stole the spotlight by setting a new high jump record.
One of the most groundbreaking moments came with the introduction of the mixed 4x100m relay, a recently Olympic-approved event. Making its debut in Nigeria, it added an exciting new dynamic to the competition.
The closing ceremony at Yabatech brought together respected figures from the sports community, including Lekan Fatodu of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Pastor Emmanuel Ebong of the Nigerian School Sport Federation, and Chief Solomon Ogba of the Nigerian Olympic Committee.
In her heartfelt closing speech, Ugonwa Nwoye, Chief Customer Relations Officer at MTN Nigeria, highlighted the deeper purpose of the event. “MTN Champs has always aimed to be more than just a competition. It’s about finding and nurturing the next generation of Nigerian Olympians,” she said. She applauded the spirit and resilience of the young athletes, noting that the event offered not just medals, but a powerful message of hope and possibility to youth across the country.
“MTN Champs is building a legacy,” Nwoye concluded. “We are proud of Lagos for embracing this vision. Now, we look ahead to Uyo, where dreams will shine even brighter.”
Olympic legend and MTN Champs ambassador Mary Onyali also graced the event, leading a colorful procession of dignitaries and MTN executives, ending at the ceremonial arch for speeches and recognition of outstanding participants.
Representing Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lekan Fatodu praised the initiative and its impact. He commended the young athletes for their passion and expressed deep gratitude to MTN for investing in youth and sports development.
“This isn’t just about competition—it’s about building the future of Nigerian athletics,” he said. “MTN has shown once again that it’s not just a telecom brand, but a committed partner in nation-building.”
With over 2,500 entries from students across Nigeria and neighboring countries like Togo, Benin Republic, and Côte d’Ivoire, the Lagos leg of MTN Champs proved to be a powerful showcase of African youth talent.
All eyes now turn to Uyo, where the grand finale will take place at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium from April 30 to May 3—promising even more memorable moments and rising stars.
