Great Abeokuta 10KM Race returns with exclusive Nigerian edition

...Retains princely elite prize purse, registration opens

By Maxwell Kumoye

After a one-year break, the Great Abeokuta 10KM Race is set to make a highly anticipated return, with organisers unveiling a special edition reserved exclusively for Nigerian athletes while retaining its prestigious elite prize purse.

Nilayo Sports Management Limited (NSML), one of Africa's leading sports marketing and event management companies, announced that the race will take place on Saturday, September 26, 2026, marking the return of one of Nigeria's foremost road running events.

In a major boost for homegrown athletics, the 2026 edition will be open only to Nigerian participants, a move aimed at providing local long-distance runners with a unique opportunity to compete for the full prize money traditionally contested by elite international athletes.

Explaining the rationale behind the decision, NSML Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Yetunde Olopade, said the organisers wanted the race's comeback to have a direct impact on Nigerian athletes.

"The Great Abeokuta 10KM Race has always been a cultural and athletic celebration for Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole. Following our decision to skip the event last year, we wanted to return with an edition that directly empowers our own athletes," Olopade said.

"By making this a strictly domestic race while keeping our premium prize purse completely intact, we are ensuring that Nigeria's finest runners are rewarded commensurately. Our athletes put in world-class effort, and this year, they will receive the world-class rewards they deserve."

The race will once again take runners through the scenic and culturally rich streets of Abeokuta, with participants tackling the city's iconic 10-kilometre course renowned for its undulating terrain and historical landmarks.

Registration for the event opened on Wednesday, July 15, and is free for all participants, underscoring NSML's commitment to grassroots sports development, youth empowerment and healthy living.

Interested athletes can register online via the official race portal, Abeokutamarathon.com, while physical registration forms are also available at designated centres across Abeokuta, including the MKO Abiola Stadium.

The return of the Great Abeokuta 10KM Race is expected to provide a significant platform for Nigeria's top road runners to showcase their talents and compete for one of the country's richest domestic road race prize purses.

Besides the sporting benefits, the economic landscape of the Rock City will witness increase in activities and traffic.

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