With less than 24 hours to the fifth edition of the Abeokuta 10km Race, organisers, Nilayo Sports Management Limited (NSML), have assured participants and spectators of a hitch-free and memorable road race as preparations reach their final stage.

The 2026 Abeokuta 10km Race is scheduled for Saturday, October 3, with the race expected to attract more than 3,000 participants to Abeokuta, Ogun State.

At the pre-race press conference held at the MKO Abiola Stadium on Friday, the managing director of NSML, Yetunde Olopade, expressed appreciation to the Ogun State Government, sponsors and partners for their support towards the successful staging of the race.

​Olopade specifically acknowledged the contributions of the Ogun State Government, Phlo, Bet9ja Foundation, Aquafina and 7UP, describing their support as crucial to the growth of the event.

​“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,” she said.

“Our sponsors and partners have been wonderful too, so we are grateful and glad to be doing this again.”

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The race comes with a total cash prize structure in dollars for men and women, with the overall winner set to pocket $1,000, while the first and second runners-up will receive $750 and $500, respectively.

​Beyond the prize money, every participant who successfully crosses the finish line will receive a commemorative medal.

​Olopade also disclosed that the race will culminate in a post-race concert at the finish-line area.

On his part, the Race Director, Yusuf Alli, said the organisers had put adequate logistics in place to ensure the safety, comfort and smooth participation of all runners.

​“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 7am from Macjob Grammar School, Onikolobo, with runners making their way through the designated route before finishing at the MKO Abiola International Stadium.

​Alli explained that five water stations would be positioned along the route, with fruits also available to 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.”

Also speaking, the managing director of Phlo, Mr Michael Ailuelohia, said the apparel brand identified with the Abeokuta 10km Race because of its commitment to initiatives that encourage movement, active living and community engagement.

Ailuelohia explained that Phlo is more than an apparel brand, describing it as a movement-driven brand that seeks to align with activities capable of getting people active and positively engaged.

“Phlo is not just an apparel brand; we see ourselves as a movement brand. We love to align with activities that get people moving and positively affect communities,” Ailuelohia said.

​“For us, the Abeokuta 10km Race represents more than just a race. It is about bringing people together, encouraging active living and showing that movement can have a positive impact on individuals and communities. That is why we are proud to be part of this event.”

The fifth edition of the Abeokuta 10km Race is expected to bring together professional indigenous athletes, fitness enthusiasts and members of the public for a celebration of sports, fitness and healthy living in Ogun State.

Carlos Queiroz has parted ways with Ghana for a second time after the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and the Portuguese coach mutually agreed to terminate his contract as head coach of the Black Stars.

The GFA announced the decision in a statement, saying the agreement followed discussions held in a spirit of mutual respect.

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According to the association, both parties agreed that ending the professional relationship was the most appropriate course of action under the present circumstances and in the best interests of Ghana, the Black Stars and Ghanaian football.

The GFA thanked Queiroz for his commitment, professionalism and dedication during his time with the national team.

The association also acknowledged his efforts in helping to build a stronger future for the Black Stars and supporting the development of Ghanaian talent since taking charge ahead of preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The GFA also expressed appreciation to Queiroz’s technical staff for their support and contribution to the Black Stars project.

The football body wished Queiroz well in his future endeavours and said it would announce detailed technical arrangements and the next steps regarding the leadership of the Black Stars in due course.

Queiroz’s latest departure comes as Ghana continues its campaign in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying series.

Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), representing Ogun West Senatorial District at the National Assembly and the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Ogun State, has thrown his weight behind the 2026 Abeokuta 10km Race, assuring that he will personally grace the October 3 event.

He gave the assurance when the Managing Director of Nilayo Sports Management Limited (NSML), Yetunde Olopade, paid him a courtesy visit to formally invite him to the race, which is being held in his honour.

The Senator commended Olopade for taking over the leadership of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, expressing delight at the progress and achievements of the company under her watch.

He described the decision to honour him with the race as a gesture he deeply appreciates, assuring that despite his busy schedule, he would make every effort to be present at the event.

“Let me start by thanking you for taking up the mantle of leadership of the company. I was truly delighted when I learnt that you are the one in charge.

“As for the race, I want to sincerely thank you for organising it in my honour. You have honoured me, and I appreciate the gesture with every sense of responsibility.

“I will do everything humanly possible to be part of it, especially because it is a race held in my honour. I will also be glad to be there to honour you in return,” he assured.

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Olopade presented a running kit to the Senator during the visit, saying that Senator Adeola was being honoured in recognition of his contributions to youth and sports development in Ogun State.

“For everything you have done for youth and sports development, we have come to invite you to support the race. Of course, we also humbly request your presence on the 3rd of October.”

The 2026 Abeokuta 10KM Race is specifically designed for Nigerian athletes, with the organisers aiming to promote homegrown talent, while also creating a lasting legacy.

Registration for the race is still ongoing at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Kuto, Abeokuta, while registered participants are scheduled to collect their race kits from September 30 to October 2 ahead of the October 3 race.

The Abeokuta 10KM Race remains one of the notable road-running events on Nigeria’s athletics calendar and is expected to bring together athletes, sports enthusiasts and other stakeholders for the fifth edition of the race.
Photo Caption: From Left Managing Director, Nilayo Sports Management Limited, Yetunde Olopade and Senator Solomon Adeola