The accreditation portal opens on March 15, 2026, while institutions are expected to confirm participation by May 15, 2026.

With Nigeria set to host the event, it is expected to strengthen collaboration among African universities, provide valuable exposure for student-athletes, and further position university sports as a pathway to international competition.

The first-ever edition of the challenge was held in Uganda in 2015, featuring 17 teams from seven universities across nine countries, including hosts Uganda, South Africa, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Lesotho, Sudan, DR Congo, Zimbabwe and South Sudan. Uganda Christian University (women) and Ndejje University (men), both from Uganda, emerged as winners.

Uganda Christian University also won the women’s event last year, securing its third consecutive title.