Musa Francis James and Akanbi Aderonke Olufunmilayo emerged as the men’s and women’s winners respectively at the fifth edition of the Abeokuta 10km Race, held in Ogun State on Saturday.

 Francis James dominated the men’s race, crossing the finish line in 30:25.33 to claim the $1,000 first prize.

Ilya Raymond finished second in 30:38.06 to earn $750, while Gyang Sunday completed the podium in 30:47.00, taking home $500.

 In the women’s category, Akanbi Aderonke Olufunmilayo secured the top spot with a time of 35:00.69, earning the $1,000 winner’s prize.

Bulus Mary Jah finished second in 35:58.71 to collect $750, while Nwantiyi Teyei Davou placed third in 36:03.09 and received $500.

 The fifth edition of the race attracted athletes, fitness enthusiasts and residents, adding another chapter to the growing road-racing culture in Abeokuta.

 For the winners and podium finishers, the event provided an opportunity to test their preparation against a competitive field while competing for significant prize money.

 Francis James expressed satisfaction after his victory, saying his preparation had paid off.

 “I’m very happy with the victory. It feels good to see all the hard work and preparation pay off. I’m grateful for the opportunity to compete here, and I want to appreciate the organisers for putting together such a good race and giving athletes like us the platform to compete and challenge ourselves.”

 Raymond, who finished runner-up in the men’s race, said he was pleased with his performance and the opportunity to compete among the leading athletes.

 Gyang also expressed delight at finishing on the podium and praised the organisers for providing athletes with a platform to compete.

 In the women’s race, Akanbi said the victory was particularly rewarding after the work that went into her preparation.

 “I am very happy to have won the women’s race. It was not easy, but I am glad that all the hard work paid off. I commend the organisers for creating this opportunity and for the effort they put into making the race a success. I hope the Abeokuta 10km Race continues to grow and gives more athletes the chance to compete at this level.”

 The race was organised by Nilayo Sports Management Limited and attracted sports enthusiasts, dignitaries and residents from across Abeokuta.

 Managing Director Yetunde Olopade expressed satisfaction with the outcome, commending the athletes and participants for their commitment.

 She also appreciated the Ogun State Government, sponsors and partners, including Phlo, Bet9ja Foundation, 7UP and Aquafina, for supporting the event.

 “We are delighted with the outcome of this year’s Abeokuta 10km Race. The quality, organisation and enthusiasm shown by the participants have once again demonstrated what can be achieved when everyone comes together.

 “We appreciate the Ogun State Government, our sponsors, partners and everyone who contributed to making this race a colourful and successful event. Nilayo Sports Management Limited will continue to uphold the class and quality that the company is known for.”

 The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, used the occasion to highlight the opportunities being created for athletes through the growth of sporting events across Nigeria.

 He also pointed to the equal prize money for the men’s and women’s winners as an example of measures that can promote equality in sport.

  “I have always been a fan of equality. When you look at what Nilayo has done here, giving the same prize money to the men and women, it is something we should encourage.

  “The Nigerian sporting ecosystem is getting bigger, and with events like this, we are creating more avenues for our sportsmen and women to thrive, compete and earn a living from sport.”

 The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Chief Sunday Dare, also commended Nilayo Sports Management Limited for staging another edition of the road race.

 Dare praised the people of Abeokuta for their support, saying the event demonstrated Nigeria’s capacity to host major sporting competitions while promoting participation in sports and healthy living.

 “Nilayo has once again demonstrated that we can organise world-class sporting events in Nigeria. This is a top-class event, and the turnout of the people of Abeokuta shows the passion Nigerians have for sports and healthy living.”

 The race also offered residents an opportunity to participate in fitness activities while showcasing Abeokuta’s potential as a destination for road racing and other sporting events.

 Among the dignitaries present were the Ogun State Commissioner for Sports Development, Wasiu Isiaka; Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Youth Development, Tunde Delu; former Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Adijat Motunrayo Adeleye; and former members of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Femi Allen Taylor and Idowu Olowofuja.