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 to hold on 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, Mrs Yetunde Olopade, expressed appreciation to the Ogun State Government, sponsors and partners for their support towards the successful staging of the race.

Mrs 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.”

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.

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

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.