The third season of MTN Champs on Friday concluded wonderfully at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, with an unforgettable finale marked by local triumphs, raw talent, and the unveiling of Nigeria’s next athletic MVPs.
The grassroots athletics competition, which spanned three cities, Benin, Lagos, and Uyo, saw over 7,000 young athletes register to compete in track and field events designed to discover and nurture the country’s next generation of sporting stars.
At the closing ceremony, Modupe Kadiri, Chief Financial Officer of MTN Nigeria, applauds the level of performance and the spirit of the young athletes.
She announced the addition of 10 new Most Valuable Performers (MVPs) to the MTN Champs academy, which now holds 30 elite youth athletes, including three standout MVPs from Akwa Ibom State.
“We have witnessed raw talent, unwavering dedication, and the bright future of Nigerian athletics unfold before our very eyes. The MTN Champs is not just a competition, it is a platform for dreams.” Kadiri said
Kadiri also acknowledged the support of the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, and the hospitality of the host state. She also acknowledged the role of local institutions in creating an enabling environment for youth sports to thrive.
“We have been deeply touched by the incredible hospitality and beauty of Akwa Ibom State,” she said.
The inter-school competitions during the Uyo finale were a key highlight, with schools competing in both cadet and youth categories. Results showed strong performances from Akwa Ibom-based institutions, positioning them as hubs of future athletic excellence.
Community Secondary School Itam emerged first price winner with 26 points for the cadet girls trophy, Lutheran High School, Obot Idim emerged second with 23 points while Ibiaku Itam emerged third with 22 points.
In the Cadet Boys Trophy, Aunty Iso International School emerged first with 29 points, followed by Lutheran High School with 14 points and Four Towns Community School with 11 points.
For the Youth Gurls Trophy, Charity of the Most Precious Blood emerged first with 35 points, followed by Lutheran High: 21 points and Ikot Ibiok Girls with 20 points. On the Youth Boys Trophy, Aunty Iso International School emerged first with 17 points, Osadenis Mixed Secondary took second with 16 points and Presbyterian Senior Science School, Ididep scored 16 points to emerge third.
Bringing the weeklong event to a close, Governor Umo Eno, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Enobong Uwah, commended MTN Nigeria for its commitment to youth development.
He noted that the initiative aligns perfectly with his administration’s ARISE Agenda and pledged continued support for programs that empower and invest in young people across the state.