Joel Ajayi

In line with the adage, “A healthy nation is a prosperous nation,” the National Sports Commission (NSC), in collaboration with the World Athletics, Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), is proud to host the inaugural Africa Running Conference in Lagos.

This historic event aims to promote health, fitness, and athletic excellence, while driving increased participation, talent discovery and private‑sector engagement.

It also positions Nigeria as a key player in the global sports ecosystem.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday in Abuja, NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko highlighted the vision behind the conference.

He emphasized that the event aligns closely with both the Commission’s long‑term goals and the broader vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to elevate Nigeria’s sports economy.

 “First and foremost, this conference is a reflection of our vision the vision of the NSC and that of President Tinubu to create a thriving sports ecosystem where sport is not just for recreation, but becomes a significant driver of national economic development.

 “One of the core pillars of this strategy is to host more international sporting events across all disciplines. This is essential to unlocking the vast potential of Nigeria’s domestic sports industry. So when the opportunity to host the Africa Running Conference came up, we embraced it wholeheartedly,” he added.

Dikko went on to stress that road running, in particular, represents a comparative advantage for Nigeria. “With the right focus and intentional development, the possibilities are immense,

“Thanks to the groundwork laid by our Director‑General and other stakeholders, the excitement has spread from Lagos to Abuja, Kaduna to Enugu. Every state now wants to be involved.”

“This growing momentum tells us that Nigeria has what it takes to sustain and scale this movement.”

Dikko observed that hosting a global conference of this magnitude will not only raise awareness about road running in Nigeria, but also spark increased participation, talent discovery and private‑sector involvement.

“This conference is about much more than running it’s about passion, potential and progress. It will create followership, attract sponsorship, showcase our culture and promote Nigeria’s positive image globally.

“We’re using this opportunity to invite the private sector not only to support this conference but to invest in road races and sporting initiatives across Nigeria.”

Also speaking, the NSC Director‑General Bukola Olopade expressed joy and pride in welcoming the global sports community to Nigeria.

“Today, my task is simple to welcome you all. And I do so with a heart full of gratitude and excitement.

“For those who know my background, you’ll understand why this moment is so special. To see the NSC, in partnership with World Athletics and the AFN, successfully organise this ground‑breaking conference is a significant milestone,” Olopade remarked.

He went on to emphasise the broader impact of the conference: “This is the first of its kind in Nigeria — and that speaks volumes. It shows that President Tinubu’s vision to galvanise sport into an economic tool is not just an idea; it’s already in motion. We’ve long said that Nigeria must move from being a consumption‑driven sports nation to a production‑driven one. Big events like this are steps in that direction.”

“For World Athletics to choose Lagos — over nations like Kenya, Uganda and South Africa with historic races like the Kilimanjaro Marathon and the Cape Town Marathon — shows their confidence in Nigeria and the reforms currently underway. These reforms extend beyond sport they encompass housing, healthcare and education. I specifically mention healthcare because road running is deeply connected to wellness, education and competition. That’s what this conference represents: a holistic approach to nation‑building through sport,” Olopade added.

On his remarked, the Head of Running and Mass Participation at World Athletics, Alessio Punzi, affirmed the organization’s strong backing of the inaugural Africa Running Conference set to take place in Lagos.

He described the event as “many years in the making,” and a critical step toward building a sustainable running culture across the continent.

“Reflecting on his early involvement with the Lagos City Marathon, Punzi recalled a serendipitous meeting in Monaco where he first heard about the race. Inspired by its potential, he committed to championing the event, which later earned the prestigious World Athletics Gold Label a mark of global excellence in road racing.”

Punzi emphasized that the conference is about more than hosting another international event. It is a strategic move toward building a full ecosystem around road running in Africa one that includes grassroots development, technical training, and year-round engagement.

He expressed that, the conference will feature two days of intensive technical workshops for national athletics federations across Africa, focused on standardization, certification, and officiating.

However, the Africa Running Conference is not just 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. As the world turns its eyes to Lagos, Nigeria proudly rises to the challenge — ready to lead, host and inspire.

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