By Aderonke Ojo
The National Sports Commission (NSC), in partnership with World Athletics and the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), is set to host the inaugural Africa Running Conference in Lagos.
This landmark event aims to unlock Nigeria’s sports potential, boost grassroots participation, and promote health, fitness, and excellence in athletics.
It also seeks to attract private sector investment while positioning Nigeria as a rising force in the global sports arena.
In his opening remarks, NSC Chairman , Shehu Dikko , welcomed guests to the conference, held at the Media Centre of the Abiola National Stadium on Tuesday in Abuja.
Dikko stated that hosting international sporting events like this aligns with the commission’s vision to make sports a key driver of the economy.
He emphasised the importance of road running, citing Nigeria’s natural talent in the area and highlighted the need for private sector support to sponsor road races and other sports.
“The conference aims to create more passion, followership, and opportunities for road running in Nigeria, while also showcasing the country’s culture and economy.
“Expressed optimism that the event would validate the progress being made in Nigerian sports and foster collaboration among stakeholders,” he said.
The Director General of NSC, Bukola Olopade expressed his delight in welcoming everyone, particularly highlighting the collaboration between the NS, World Athletics, and the Athletics Federation of Nigeria.
He noted that his role was simple – to welcome everyone to an event that promises to be a significant contribution to the sports economy under President BolaTinubu’s administration.”
“Hosting this event is a testament to the President’s sports economy agenda bearing fruit.
“ By leveraging sports as an economic tool, we are shifting from consumption to production.
“ The fact that World Athletics chose Nigeria, in spite of other countries with established events like South Africa and Kenya, speaks volumes about the confidence in our nation.
“ This aligns with the President’s broader reforms in housing, healthcare, and education.
”Road running, in particular, showcases the symbiotic relationship between sports, health, and education, which is what this conference and our agenda are all about – growing Nigeria’s sports economy,” he said.
Tonobok Okowa, AFN President, expressed excitement about the conference, emphasising Lagos as a hub for sports activities.
Solomon Ogba, LOC Chairman of AFN , noted that the event is a prelude to the Lagos City Marathon and highlighted the importance of road running, where Nigeria has a comparative advantage.
He added that promoting running will contribute to a healthier nation, ultimately leading to a more prosperous society.
Alessio Punzi, Head of Running and Mass Participation at World Athletics, expressed his delight in hosting the Africa Running Conference in Lagos, Nigeria.
He highlighted the growth of road running globally, citing a third running boom driven by increased interest in health and wellness.
“ This conference aims to provide a platform for networking, education, and technical workshops, focusing on standardising road races and promoting development across Africa,” he said.
He praised the synergy between stakeholders, including the NSC , African Athletics Confederation, and the private sector, and expressed optimism about the long-term impact of the conference.
Corsi thanked the Nigerian government and sports leaders for their trust and support.
Ultimately, the Africa Running Conference is more than a sporting event, it is a statement of intent, a call to action, and a celebration of the growing synergy between sport, health, education, and economic development in Nigeria.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Augusta Uchediunor/Joseph Edeh
