Abeokuta 10km: Musa Francis, Akanbi Aderonke Claim 2026 Titles
Musa Francis James and Akanbi Aderonke Olufunmilayo emerged as the men’s and women’s champions 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 secure the $1,000 winner’s 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 claimed the top prize after clocking 35:00.69, also earning $1,000.
Bulus Mary Jah finished second in 35:58.71, while Nwantiyi Teyei Davou took third in 36:03.09, with both receiving $750 and $500 respectively.
The race, organised by Nilayo Sports Management Limited, brought together competitive athletes, fitness enthusiasts and residents, further strengthening Abeokuta’s growing profile as a destination for road racing and mass-participation sporting events.
For James, the victory was a reward for his preparation and an opportunity to test himself against a strong field.
“I’m very happy with the victory. It feels good to see all the hard work and preparation pay off,” James said.
He also commended the organisers for providing athletes with a platform to compete at a high level.
Akanbi expressed similar satisfaction after securing the women’s title, describing the victory as a product of hard work and preparation.
The event also drew praise from National Sports Commission Director General Bukola Olopade, who highlighted the equal prize money awarded to the men’s and women’s winners as an important step towards promoting equality in sport.
“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,” Olopade said.
Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Chief Sunday Dare, also praised Nilayo Sports Management for staging another successful road race, describing the event as evidence of Nigeria’s capacity to host high-quality sporting competitions.
Managing Director of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, Yetunde Olopade, thanked the Ogun State Government, sponsors and partners, including Phlo, Bet9ja Foundation, 7UP and Aquafina, for their support.
The 2026 Abeokuta 10km Race further underlined the growing role of road races in promoting mass participation, healthy living and opportunities for Nigerian athletes.
