Abeokuta 10km race: Over 3,000 runners set for October 3 showdown

More than 3,000 runners have registered for the 2026 Abeokuta 10KM Race, with just five days to the much-anticipated road race scheduled for Saturday, October 3, in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The impressive number of registered participants has further raised expectations ahead of the fifth edition of the race, organised by Nilayo Sports Management Limited.

The race will commence at Macjob Grammar School, Onikolobo at 7 am, and terminate at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Kuto, taking participants through parts of Abeokuta and providing spectators with an opportunity to experience the city’s unique character.

One of the distinctive features of this year’s race is the decision to make it a 100 per cent indigenous Nigerian athletes’ event, with only Nigerian runners eligible to compete.

Beyond the contest for prize money, the Abeokuta 10KM Race is also expected to contribute to the local economy, particularly by creating opportunities for small-scale businesses and traders along the race route.

Food vendors, transport operators, artisans, hospitality providers and other small businesses are expected to benefit from the increased movement of people that the event will bring to different parts of the city.

For residents and visitors, the event is expected to be more than a road race, as Abeokuta prepares to combine athletics, culture, tourism and local economic activity on October 3.

Top Sports administrators, active and retired sportsmen and women, enthusiasts and people from different walks of life are expected to grace the occasion.