ABEOKUTA – Organizers of Abeokuta 10KM race, Nilayo Sports Management Limited (NSML), have explained the decision to restrict the elite race to indigenous athletes, saying the initiative is designed to create greater opportunities for Nigerian runners.
The organisers also assured participants and spectators of a safe, hitch-free and memorable event as preparations reached their final stage ahead of Saturday’s race.
The 2026 Abeokuta 10KM Race is scheduled to hold on Saturday, October 3, with more than 3,000 participants expected to converge on Abeokuta, Ogun State, for the event.
Speaking at the pre-race press conference held at the SWAN Media Centre, MKO Abiola Stadium on Friday, the Managing Director of NSML, Mrs Yetunde Olopade, said the decision to make the race a local-athletes-only event was deliberate.
Olopade explained that the initiative was intended to give Nigerian athletes a bigger platform to compete, earn meaningful prize money and showcase their talents without having to contend with international runners.
She said the organisers were particularly committed to ensuring that the Abeokuta race continued to contribute to the development of athletics and sports in Nigeria.
The NSML boss expressed appreciation to the Ogun State Government, sponsors and partners for their support towards the successful staging of the fifth edition.
She specifically acknowledged the contributions of the Ogun State Government, Phlo, Bet9ja Foundation, Aquafina and 7UP, describing their support as crucial to the growth and sustainability of the race.
“The Ogun State Government has been of immense support. We run on their roads, and the Commissioner for Sports was meant to be here but had another very important state function, so we are very grateful.
“Our sponsors and partners have been wonderful too, so we are grateful and glad to be doing this again.”
The race comes with a total cash prize structure denominated in dollars for male and female categories, with the overall winner expected to receive $1,000, while the first and second runners-up will receive $750 and $500 respectively.
Beyond the prize money, the organizers disclosed that every participant who successfully crosses the finish line will receive a commemorative medal.
Olopade also disclosed that the event would culminate in a post-race concert at the finish-line area, adding an entertainment dimension to the sporting event.
Also speaking, the technical director for the race, Dr. Yusuf Alli, assured runners that adequate logistics had been put in place to guarantee their safety and comfort throughout the race.
According to him, the organisers had paid attention to critical areas including the race route, water stations, medical services and security.
“All the arrangements have been put in place. We have looked at the route, the water points, medical support, security and every other aspect of the race to make sure that participants have a safe and enjoyable experience.
“We are expecting over 3,000 runners, so we are prepared for the numbers. We want everybody to come out, enjoy the race, compete fairly and, most importantly, finish safely.”
The race will commence at 7:00 a.m. from Macjob Grammar School, Onikolobo, with runners navigating Ibara, Omida, Isale-Igbein, Sapon, Ijaiye, Iyana- Mortuary down to Leme and the designated route before finishing at the MKO Abiola International Stadium, Kuto.
Alli said five water stations would be strategically positioned along the route, with fruits also provided for participants.
“We have five water stations strategically positioned along the route, and there will also be fruits for the runners. We are encouraging everyone to run at their own pace and make use of the facilities provided along the route.”
