One thousand women are set to participate in the 2026 Women Run taking place on Saturday in Abeokuta.
The Managing Director of Brussels Sport Management Limited, Yetunde Johnson, expressed appreciation to partners and stakeholders ahead of the 2026 Women Run.
Speaking at a press conference held at MKO Abiola Sport Arena on Friday to kickstart the event , Johnson described the race as a celebration of women’s health and fitness while acknowledging the support of the Ogun State government and the National Sports Commission.
“Your health is wealth, and I want to say a big thank you to Ogun State, the National Sports Commission and every sponsor supporting this initiative.
This year, we are expecting so much more,” she said.
Also speaking, the Project Manager, Emmanuel Ode, explained that the 2026 edition is deliberately focused on women, particularly market women and those engaged in daily economic activities who rarely find time for exercise.
“This year’s race is focused on women — especially our mothers and market women who are busy every day and hardly have time to take care of their health. We want them to know that exercise is important and accessible,” Ode said.
According to him, more than 1,000 women have registered for the 5km race, with kit distribution ongoing across the state.
He added that over 500 runners had already collected their kits as of the press conference, with distribution continuing until the end of the day.
“For the first time, every participant who completes the race will receive a medal. We also have several products from our partners to reward runners,” he added.
The race will start at Sapon and pass through Isale Igbeyin, the Central Bank of Nigeria area, Guaranty Trust Bank corridor, climb the Kuto Bridge, proceed toward the Nigerian National Petroleum Company bridge, and finish inside the stadium.
Organisers announced prize money of ₦500,000 for the winner, ₦300,000 for second place, and ₦200,000 for third place.
Meanwhile , the project consultant Oweifie Ebidowei noted that the race, now in its fourth edition, continues to grow in impact.
“We are getting better with every edition. The race will start exactly 8am at Sapon, and medals will be given to runners who meet the required time. Abeokuta is already agog for tomorrow’s event,” he said.
The Ogun State Commissioner for Sports, Wasiu Isiaka, represented by the Director of the Ogun State Sports Ministry, Seyi Sonde, commended corporate sponsors for supporting the initiative.
“Government alone cannot do it. That is why we encourage corporate bodies to collaborate so that talents across the state can be discovered and nurtured,” he said.
Organizers promise water stations, volunteers along the route and entertainment at the finish area to ensure a memorable experience for participants.
