Olopade, Sunday Dare Hail Abeokuta 10km As Road Racing Grows

National Sports Commission Director General Bukola Olopade and former Youth and Sports Development Minister Sunday Dare have praised the fifth Abeokuta 10km Race for showcasing Nigeria’s growing potential in road running.

Olopade said the continued growth of events such as the Abeokuta race was creating more opportunities for Nigerian athletes to compete and earn a living from sport.

‘The Nigerian sporting ecosystem is getting bigger, and with events like this, we are creating more avenues for our sportsmen and women to thrive, compete and earn a living from sport,’ Olopade said.

Dare, who was instrumental in efforts to revive road and distance running in Nigeria during his tenure as Youth and Sports Development Minister, also praised Nilayo Sports Management Limited for staging another road race and commended Abeokuta residents for their support.

Under Dare, Nigeria staged its first national cross-country race in Jos in 2023, while a training camp for distance runners was also held in the Plateau State capital as part of efforts to develop the country’s endurance athletes.

‘Nilayo has once again demonstrated that we can organise world-class sporting events in Nigeria. This is a top-class event, and the turnout of the people of Abeokuta shows the passion Nigerians have for sports and healthy living,’ Dare said.

The fifth edition of the Abeokuta 10km Race brought together competitive runners, fitness enthusiasts and members of the public, turning the streets of the Ogun State capital into a celebration of athletics and healthy living.