WAFU B U-17 Championship: Cote d’Ivoire Replaces Nigeria as Host

Cote d’Ivoire has been confirmed as the new host for the 2025 WAFU B U-17 Championship, replacing Nigeria. The annual youth tournament was initially scheduled to take place in Nigeria next month, with the Moshood Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta and the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne designated as the venues.

The WAFU B council made the decision to relocate the tournament following the ongoing renovation works at the Remo Stars Stadium. Renovation activities at the stadium commenced earlier this week, making it unavailable for the competition. “The decision to move the tournament to Cote d’Ivoire was necessary due to the renovation works at Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne,” a WAFU B official stated.

The championship is set to run from September 11 to 25, 2025, bringing together the best U-17 teams from the WAFU B sub-region. The move to Cote d’Ivoire ensures that the tournament proceeds without interruptions, providing the young talents with a safe and well-prepared environment to showcase their skills.

This adjustment comes as part of WAFU B’s commitment to maintaining the quality and standards of the competition. Organizers have assured participating teams, officials, and fans that all necessary arrangements are being made to guarantee a successful event in the new host country.

The WAFU B U-17 Championship serves as a crucial platform for young players to gain international exposure, and the relocation underscores the importance of infrastructure readiness in hosting regional competitions. Cote d’Ivoire, with its established sports facilities, is expected to deliver a seamless tournament, offering a competitive and professional setting for the next generation of football stars.

Fans and stakeholders are encouraged to follow updates closely as preparations continue ahead of the tournament’s kickoff in September.