Mary Onyali Urges Young Athletes to Combine Sports with Education

Former Nigerian sprint legend, Mary Onyali, has advised young athletes to strike a healthy balance between their sporting ambitions and academic pursuits, emphasizing that both are essential for long-term success.

She gave this advice during the MTN CHAMPS Season 4 Grand Finale held at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan, Oyo State. Onyali stressed that aspiring athletes must avoid focusing solely on sports while neglecting their education, noting that true excellence comes from developing both areas simultaneously.

According to her, many athletes who have secured opportunities abroad did so not just because of their athletic talent, but also because they met the academic standards required by international institutions.

“Sports and education must go hand-in-hand. You cannot afford to ignore one for the other if you want to succeed at the highest level,” Onyali stated.

She also praised the MTN Champs initiative, describing it as a valuable platform for discovering and nurturing young talents across Nigeria. Onyali highlighted the importance of grassroots competitions in giving athletes the exposure needed to grow and compete at national and international levels.

The former Olympian noted that the structure of the competition, which includes zonal events in cities like Calabar and Jos before the grand finale, has helped expand participation and uncover hidden talents nationwide.

She encouraged participants to take full advantage of the opportunity, adding that those identified will receive mentorship and guidance to help them reach global standards.

Also speaking at the event, Babatunde Koiki, Manager of PR, Communications and Partnerships at Making of Champions, described MTN Champs Season 4 as the result of a four-year partnership focused on building the next generation of elite Nigerian athletes.

He revealed that several athletes discovered through the initiative are already competing both locally and internationally, including within the U.S. collegiate system.

Koiki added that selected athletes benefit from scholarships, quality education, and professional coaching through the organisation’s academy in Lagos, positioning them for global competitions.

He further noted that the long-term goal of the programme is to prepare athletes for major events such as the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, describing the initiative as a significant investment in Nigeria’s sporting future.