The 2025 MTN Champs Season 3 Grand Final, a prestigious national athletic competition set to unfold at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo from May 6th to 9th, 2025, has unveiled its list of Most Valuable Players (MVPs), highlighting the remarkable athletic talent emerging from across Nigeria. Following rigorous regional qualifying rounds held in Benin and Lagos, a select group of 40 exceptional athletes, 20 from each location, have earned their place in the grand final. These MVPs represent a diverse range of age groups and disciplines, encompassing nine Cadet (U-14) athletes, 24 Youth (U-17) athletes, and seven Junior (U-20) athletes, with a commendable gender balance of 24 girls and 16 boys.
Ogun State has emerged as a dominant force in youth athletics, boasting the highest representation among the invited MVPs. Ten athletes from Ogun State, spanning various age categories and events, have been recognized for their outstanding performances during the regional competitions. This impressive contingent underscores the state’s burgeoning reputation as a hotbed for nurturing and developing young athletic talent. The Ogun State athletes heading to the grand final include Abigael Ogunbowale, Adesanya Joolade, Samuel Adegbuyi, Fathia Akorede, Goodnews Saturday, Promise Egbege, Rebecca Eniolobo, Victory Aganya, Ibrahim Ahmed, and Ebimean Tumise. Their success serves as a testament to the effectiveness of the state’s athletic programs and the dedication of its young athletes.
Delta State follows closely behind Ogun State with eight representatives, demonstrating its continued strength in athletics. Anambra State also makes a significant contribution with four athletes, while other states, including Lagos, Edo, Oyo, Bayelsa, Ondo, Kaduna, and Rivers, are also represented among the MVPs. The diverse geographical representation of these athletes underscores the nationwide reach and impact of the MTN Champs, promoting athletic development and competition across the country. This broad participation highlights the growing importance of the competition in identifying and fostering the next generation of Nigerian athletic stars.
The MVPs hail from a variety of educational institutions, reflecting the broad base of athletic talent nurtured within different school systems. Represented schools include Anglican Comprehensive High School, TASUESS, Makun High School, Surulere Girls Junior School, Greensprings, and Corona Schools Agbara, showcasing the commitment of these institutions to fostering athletic excellence alongside academic pursuits. The involvement of diverse schools underscores the vital role education plays in cultivating young athletes and providing them with opportunities to compete at a high level. Among the standout individuals are Mfon Abasi Udoh of International School Lagos and Deshiny Reuben of Aunty Iso International School, Rivers, both of whom have demonstrated exceptional promise and potential in their respective disciplines.
As the grand final draws near, the invited athletes are required to confirm their participation, specifying their travel details and the events they intend to contest. Athletes are permitted to compete in a maximum of three events, with a restriction of no more than two track events. This limitation ensures a balanced competition, encouraging athletes to specialize while also offering opportunities to test their versatility across different disciplines. The emphasis on confirming participation and chosen events reflects the high level of organization and professionalism associated with the MTN Champs.
The culmination of these meticulous preparations will be the grand unveiling of the Team MVP athletes in their new kits during a press conference scheduled for May 5th. This event will serve as a platform to officially introduce the finalists to the media and the public, generating excitement and anticipation for the upcoming competition. It will also provide an opportunity to recognize the achievements of these talented young athletes and celebrate their dedication and hard work. The press conference serves as a symbolic launch of the grand final, signaling the commencement of a thrilling showcase of athleticism and sportsmanship. The MTN Champs, through its careful selection process and dedication to providing a quality platform for young athletes, continues to play a crucial role in the development and promotion of Nigerian athletics on a national stage.
