The 2026 edition of the Abeokuta 10km race scheduled for Saturday, October 3, will be attended by over 3,000 runners, organisers of the event, Nilayo Sports Management, have said.

The rise in number of registered participants has further raised expectations ahead of the fifth edition of the race.

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.

According to the organisers, 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,” Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management Company, Mrs. Yetunde Olopade said.

She stated that top Sports administrators, active and retired sportsmen and women, enthusiasts and people from different walks of life will grace the occasion.