Sports

Over 150 foreign, Nigerians Elites runners set for Abuja Int. Marathon Tomorrow

Published

2 years ago

April 28, 2023

… $110,000, other prizes up for grab
Joel Ajayi

The much-awaited first ever Abuja Marathon will take place Tomorrow Saturday 29th April 2023 in the Nigeria’s capital city where $110,000 will be won in male and female $55,000 each.

The runners which include 32 international 120 elites Nigerian athletes.

The Abuja International Marathon tomorrow will be in three categories, the 5km Student Race, the 10 km Family Run and the 42.195 Full Marathon.

Speaking at the world press briefing on Friday in Abuja, the Director of Sports in FCT Lukas Itsfanus speaking on behalf of FCT Administration said the nation capital city is ready to host Abuja international Marathon that all Nigerians will be proud of.

According to him, this is the first time we are doing this, we are looking for the support of everyone to the success of the program.

“I want to assure you that, we are going to have a lot pleasant moment In Abuja.”

Speaking on the Benefits of Marathon to runners and citizen Mrs Joyce Bozimo, said marathon is an enduring race, it’s like journey of life that need endurance before making it in life.

Marathon race is beyond religious, it’s beyond political party that is why marathon give a very good health, it promote peaceful co-existence, it promote tourism and a lot of benefits that that is the aim of the Marathon race in FCT.

On his own, the Race Director Olukayode Thomas highlighted the Marathon route.
According to him, the full Marathon, the 42 kilometers race event will commence 6:00am at City gate and terminate at eagles square.

“The Student/Children 5km race will start 6:15am from Zone 4 bridge/ Sani Abacha bridge and end at Eagles Square.
“While the 10km Family fun race Start at Wuye bridge and terminate at Eagles Square.”

While giving the hint on the the number of athletes expect to take part in tomorrow even, Coach Gabriel Okon said the the elite runners include 32 international 120 elites Nigerian athletes.

However, the foreign countries include Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia and Bahrain.

Meanwhile, An Artist know as Reekado Banks will be performing live at the Abuja International Marathon’s Finish point the Eagle Square car park.

Share on Facebook

Sports

Fatimah Yusuf Olukoju Emerges NAWIS Representative on AFN Board

Published

3 hours ago

June 9, 2025

The Gleamer

By Joel Ajayi

Renowned former Nigerian sprinter Fatimah Yusuf Olukoju has been elected as the Nigeria Association for Women in Sports (NAWIS) representative on the board of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).

Her emergence followed a transparent electoral process conducted by NAWIS on Monday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja. Olukoju secured 30 votes out of 45, defeating her sole opponent, Dr. Nneka Anibeze, who polled 15 votes.

The election aligns with the revised AFN constitution, which reserves a dedicated seat on the board for a women-in-sports representative.

A trailblazer in Nigerian athletics, Fatimah Yusuf Olukoju brings a wealth of experience to her new role. A former Olympian and African champion, she is best remembered for her record-breaking performances in the 400 metres and her pivotal role in Nigeria’s relay teams during the 1990s.

Her appointment is expected to bolster advocacy for gender inclusion, athlete welfare, and grassroots development within the federation.

In her acceptance speech, Olukoju expressed heartfelt gratitude for the trust placed in her by NAWIS members, pledging to work tirelessly to promote the interests of women in sports.

“Once again, I want to thank our founder and the NAWIS EXCO leadership. Leadership isn’t about how far you advance yourself—it’s about how far you can advance others,” she said.“If you’re not passing on what you’ve learned and experienced to those you lead, you’re not setting yourself up for lasting success. Leaders are meant to serve others.”

She also emphasized her readiness to take on the responsibility, regardless of her location.

“Thank God I have good health and stamina. I’m ready to contribute positively to the growth of sports in Nigeria, especially women in sports.

“Let me remind you that I have always answered the call to serve Nigeria, no matter where I lived at the time.

“I am ready to serve again in this new capacity, and distance will never stand in the way. I will always be physically present to carry out this great responsibility whenever necessary.”

With her appointment, Fatimah Yusuf Olukoju is set to be a powerful voice on the AFN board—representing women, championing development, and shaping a stronger future for Nigerian athletics.

Share on Facebook