MTN Championships Launched in Plateau State
The 4th MTN Championships commenced today in Plateau State, featuring 148 schools and teams vying for medals across a range of athletic events.
Event Highlights and Commitment to Youth Development
Hosted at the New Jos Township Stadium, this tournament is part of MTN’s ongoing initiative to foster youth development and grassroots sports throughout Nigeria. At a press conference in Jos on Wednesday, Ibe Eteah, Chief Internal Audit and Forensic Services Officer of MTN, underscored the company’s dedication to nurturing young talent through athletic endeavors.
Increased Prize Money and Athlete Participation
Eteah announced that the event will feature around 1,300 athletes competing in 94 events across four age categories. The tournament offers a substantial prize pool, with ₦2 million for first place, ₦1.5 million for second, ₦1 million for third, and ₦500,000 for fourth place. “This year marks our fourth event, building on previously successful competitions in Lagos and Calabar. We are thrilled to be in Jos before heading to our grand finale in Ibadan,” he stated.
Growth of MTN Champs Since Inception
Since its launch in 2022, MTN Champs has experienced remarkable growth, engaging approximately 20,000 athletes and over 1,500 schools nationwide. Eteah noted that 30 talented athletes have progressed to the MTN Champs Athletics Academy, achieving notable feats including 14 medals at national championships and representing Nigeria in the men’s 4x400m relay.
Significance of the Tournament for Youth Sports
Yemi Galadima, editor-in-chief of Making of Champions, spoke to the transformative impact of the tournament on youth sports development. “We have around 1,300 athletes from 148 schools participating here in Jos. Over the next three days, they will showcase their skills in 94 events across four age categories. The MTN Champs has become a vital competition in the private sector, providing a platform for athletes across various disciplines,” she said.
Support from Local Government Officials
Plateau State Sports Commissioner Musa Ashoms praised MTN for selecting the state as the championship host, assuring organizers of government support. “We are thrilled to host the MTN Championships and are committed to ensuring the tournament’s success,” he affirmed.
Promoting Education Through Sports
In a similar vein, Education Secretary Kachorom Gang expressed optimism about the competition’s potential to foster champions while promoting academic excellence. “We are proud to host the MTN Championships in Plateau State, believing this initiative will cultivate champions and enhance academic performance alongside athletic achievement,” she remarked.
Balancing Sports with Education
Professor Ezra Gunen, Director of the Plateau State Sports Council, commended MTN for its ongoing commitment to the event. He emphasized the importance for young athletes to balance sports with education, noting that athletic careers are often short-lived and long-term success typically relies on academic backing.
The MTN Championships in Jos is set to continue until March 28, 2026, before moving to Itami for its grand finale, strengthening its role as a pivotal event in Nigeria’s athletic landscape.
