Over 1,000 Athletes Arrive Abuja for African Karate Championship

Abuja is set to host the 2025 African Karate Championship as more than 1,000 athletes from 31 African nations converge on the Nigerian capital. The competition will run from July 21 to July 28, bringing together top karate talents across the continent.

President of the Karate Federation of Nigeria (KFN), Silas Agara, confirmed the development on Sunday, noting that preparations were in top gear to ensure a successful event.

According to Agara, athletes will compete in four major categories:

• Cadet (14–15 years)

• Junior (16–17 years)

• Senior (18 years and above)

• Para-karate for athletes with disabilities.

“We are glad to announce that most of the participating countries are already on ground, including their technical officials who will support the smooth running of the championship,” Agara said.

He acknowledged the logistical challenges involved in accommodating and transporting delegations, as well as handling immigration processes like visa-on-arrival, but assured that everything was “on course.”

The General Assembly of the African Karate Federation will also hold in Abuja during the championship.

Technical Director of KFN, Dave Jegede, revealed that Nigeria will field 60 athletes, many of whom are continental and Commonwealth medalists. He expressed confidence that the host nation will deliver an impressive performance.

“Our athletes have been in camp and have participated in several national and regional championships in preparation for this event. They are motivated and ready to make Nigeria proud,” Jegede said.