The Oyo State Government has thrown its full weight behind the MTN Champs Season 4 grand finale. Still, critics are already questioning whether the event is more about youth development or political optics.

The Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke, on Monday reiterated the government’s commitment to grassroots sports as Ibadan prepares to host over 3,200 athletes from across Nigeria.

She made the declaration during a press briefing in Jericho, Ibadan, ahead of the three-day championship scheduled for the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba.

Adegoke maintained that the state had made adequate preparations for athletes, officials and spectators, framing the event as part of a broader youth empowerment strategy.

However, observers argue that such high-profile sporting events often mask deeper structural issues in Nigeria’s sports development system.

MTN Champs is designed as a track and field competition aimed at discovering young talents from schools nationwide.

The Season 4 Grand Finale, billed for April 14 to April 17, 2026, is expected to gather athletes, coaches and stakeholders in what organisers describe as a celebration of excellence.

The commissioner insisted that sports remain a critical tool for engagement and socio-economic growth.

“The state government is fully committed to providing an enabling environment… we see sports as a critical tool for youth engagement,” she said.

She added that the competition would further position Oyo as a sporting hub.

“The government is proud to partner with stakeholders… many of these young athletes will go on to represent Nigeria globally,” Adegoke stated.

Earlier, Bambo Akani revealed that 3,200 athletes, 215 schools and 325 teams had registered.

Akani described the event as a pipeline for international opportunities.

“Some of the talents discovered are already on full scholarships in the United States,” he said.

He expressed optimism that the initiative would produce global stars.

“We are building future champions,” Akani added, though critics insist grassroots structures still need deeper investment beyond events.