Sports
Nilayo Sports, Lagos Govt Assure World-Class 11th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon
Joel Ajayi
The organisers of the gold-labelled Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, Nilayo Sports Management Limited, have described the 11th edition of the race scheduled for Saturday, February 14, 2026, as iconic, marking the beginning of a new decade for one of Africa’s most prestigious road races.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Access Bank headquarters in Lagos to herald the commencement of the race, the Managing Director of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, Mrs. Yetunde Olopade, said the 2026 edition represents growth, resilience and renewed ambition for the marathon.
She expressed appreciation to Access Bank, other corporate sponsors and the Lagos State Government for their unwavering support and commitment to the annual event.
“This 11th edition is symbolic for us. It is not just another race, it signals the beginning of another decade of excellence, impact and global recognition for the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon”.
“We are deeply grateful to Access Bank, our valued sponsors and the Lagos State Government for their consistency and belief in this vision. Together, we have built one of the most revered road races in Africa, and this year’s event will be nothing short of world class.”
Olopade assured runners, partners and spectators of a top-notch race that will further consolidate the marathon’s status and international standing.
Also speaking at the event, the Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr. Lekan Fatodu, commended the organisers for their professionalism and dedication, noting that the race has continued to elevate Lagos’ profile globally.
He reaffirmed the state government’s support for the marathon, describing it as a platform that showcases Lagos for the right reasons.
“The Lagos State Government remains fully committed to supporting the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon because it continues to put Lagos on the global map in a positive light,” Fatodu stated.
“This race is more than a sporting event, it is a celebration of our culture, resilience and capacity to host world-class events. We will continue to provide the enabling environment for it to thrive.”
Adding his voice, the President of the International Association of Ultra Runners, Mr. Nadeem Khan, described the growth of the marathon over the years as remarkable, applauding the organisers and stakeholders for their vision and execution.
“The progression I have seen at the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is truly phenomenal. Year after year, the race keeps improving in standards, organisation and global appeal,” Khan said.
The 2026 edition is expected to attract elite athletes from across the world, further reinforcing its status as one of Africa’s leading road races.
Sports
NSC DG, Hon. Bukola Olopade Wins Sports Administrator of the Year at New Telegraph Awards
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has been honoured with the prestigious Sports Administrator of the Year award at the New Telegraph Awards, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to sports development in Nigeria.
The award, which took place on Friday, celebrated Olopade’s transformative leadership, administrative excellence and longstanding commitment to building sustainable sports structures across the country.
A seasoned sports administrator, Olopade has served twice as Commissioner for Sports in Ogun State, where he spearheaded progressive reforms and talent development initiatives. His leadership footprint also spans multiple strategic roles within Nigeria’s sports ecosystem.
He is a former President of the Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation, where he championed inclusivity and the advancement of para-sports.
He also served as Chief Operating Officer of the Nigeria National League (NNL), strengthening operational efficiency and league management structures.
In the private sector, Hon. Olopade was Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, playing a key role in delivering internationally recognised sporting events and elevating Nigeria’s profile in global road racing.
Under his current role at the National Sports Commission, in conjunction with the chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, Nigerian sports has witnessed renewed hope, improved coordination and enhanced stakeholder confidence.
The New Telegraph Award further affirms his impact-driven leadership and dedication to repositioning Nigerian sports on both continental and global stages.
-
Featured7 years agoLampard Names New Chelsea Manager
-
Featured6 years agoFG To Extends Lockdown In FCT, Lagos Ogun states For 7days
-
Featured6 years agoChildren Custody: Court Adjourns Mike Ezuruonye, Wife’s Case To April 7
-
Featured7 years agoNYSC Dismisses Report Of DG’s Plan To Islamize Benue Orientation Camp
-
Featured4 years agoTransfer Saga: How Mikel Obi Refused to compensate me After I Linked Him Worth $4m Deal In Kuwait SC – Okafor
-
Sports3 years ago
TINUBU LAMBAST DELE MOMODU
-
News1 year agoZulu to Super Eagles B team, President Tinubu is happy with you
-
Featured6 years ago
Board urges FG to establish one-stop rehabilitation centres in 6 geopolitical zones
