Great Abeokuta 10KM Race Returns September 26, 2026 for Nigerian Athletes
The much-anticipated Great Abeokuta 10KM Race is set to return on Saturday, September 26, 2026, with organisers unveiling a unique local-only format aimed at promoting Nigerian long-distance runners while retaining the event’s prestigious prize money.
Africa’s leading sports marketing and event management company, Nilayo Sports Management Limited, announced the comeback of the annual road race after taking a one-year break, promising a bigger and more impactful edition.
In a major policy shift, the organisers disclosed that the 2026 edition will be strictly open to Nigerian participants, making it an exclusive competition for local athletes.
Despite limiting participation to Nigerian runners, the organisers confirmed that the elite prize purse would remain unchanged, allowing local athletes to compete for the same lucrative rewards traditionally won by international competitors.
Speaking on the decision, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, Mrs. Yetunde Olopade, said the initiative was designed to reward and develop Nigeria’s growing pool of elite long-distance runners.
According to her, the Great Abeokuta 10KM Race has become a major sporting and cultural event for Ogun State and Nigeria, adding that the organisers deliberately chose to return with a format that prioritises local talent.
“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. 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,” Olopade said.
The race will once again take participants through the scenic and culturally significant streets of Abeokuta, with runners tackling the iconic 10-kilometre route known for its rich heritage and challenging undulating terrain.
Organisers also announced that registration for the 2026 edition is completely free as part of efforts to encourage grassroots sports development, youth empowerment and healthy living.
Online registration officially opened on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. Interested Nigerian athletes and other participants can register through the official Great Abeokuta Race portal at https://abeokutamarathon.com.
Physical registration has also commenced, with forms available for collection and submission at designated centres across Abeokuta, including the MKO Abiola Stadium.
The 2026 Great Abeokuta 10KM Race is expected to attract some of Nigeria’s finest long-distance runners and further strengthen Ogun State’s reputation as one of the country’s leading destinations for road racing and sports tourism.
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