By Milcah Tanimu
MTN Nigeria has unveiled the first cohort of athletes for the Making of Champions (MoC) Athletics Academy, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to grassroots sports development. The announcement was made at a press conference held at MTN Plaza in Ikoyi, Lagos.
The 20 athletes selected from MTN Champs Seasons 1 and 2 will be the academy’s inaugural group. They will benefit from top-tier training facilities, expert coaching, and a comprehensive development programme during their year-long residency, aimed at preparing them for major international events like the Commonwealth Games and the Olympics.
Karl Toriola, CEO of MTN Nigeria, expressed his pride in the athletes, highlighting their exceptional achievements and dedication. He emphasized that the academy is designed to support and empower these athletes to reach their full potential and inspire future generations.
The MTN Champs initiative, modeled after Jamaica’s secondary championships, aims to discover and nurture Nigeria’s future Olympic champions. Since its launch in 2023, it has identified top talent across Nigeria, with over 15,000 athletes participating from various cities. MTN’s investment in the academy underscores its broader mission to advance sports and youth development in the country.
