Musa Francis and Akanbi Aderonke Win Abeokuta 10km Race

Musa Francis James and Akanbi Aderonke Olufunmilayo won the men’s and women’s categories at the fifth Abeokuta 10km Race in Ogun State on Saturday.

Francis James led the men's race from the start, finishing the 10km in 30:25.33 to take home the $1,000 first prize.

Ilya Raymond came in second with a time of 30:38.06 and won $750. Gyang Sunday rounded out the men’s podium in third place, finishing in 30:47.00 and receiving $500.

The women’s race had a similar outcome, with Akanbi Aderonke Olufunmilayo finishing first in 35:00.69, also winning $1,000.

Bulus Mary Jah finished second at 35:58.71 and took home $750, while Nwantiyi Teyei Davou finished third in 36:03.09, earning $500.

These results show how competitive the race was, bringing together athletes, fitness lovers, and the community for this event in Abeokuta.

For the winners, this race was a reward for their hard work and a great chance to compete on a stage that keeps attracting athletes to the city.

Francis James expressed joy at his victory, saying it was great to see his efforts pay off. He thanked the organizers for giving athletes a chance to compete.

“I’m very happy with the victory,” James said. “It feels good to see all the hard work and preparation pay off. I’m grateful for the opportunity to compete here, and I want to appreciate the organisers for putting together such a good race and giving athletes like us the platform to compete and challenge ourselves.”

Raymond, who finished second, shared his excitement about his performance and being among the top athletes.

“I’m glad and excited to have been a winner. It feels really good to see all the effort and preparation pay off.”

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to compete here, and I want to appreciate the organisers for putting together a race that gives athletes like us the platform to compete and challenge ourselves,” he said.

Gyang, who came third, said he felt great to be among the top three and hoped the event would grow.

“I’m just happy to be one of the people to grace the podium. It is a good feeling to finish among the top athletes, especially in a race like this. I appreciate the organisers for giving us the opportunity to compete, and I hope this initiative continues to grow and attract even more athletes in the years ahead,” he said.

In the women’s category, Akanbi said her win was especially satisfying after her hard work.

“I am very happy to have won the women’s race. It was not easy, but I am glad that all the hard work paid off. I commend the organisers for creating this opportunity and for the effort they put into making the race a success. I hope the Abeokuta 10km Race continues to grow and gives more athletes the chance to compete at this level,” she said.

The race was organized by Nilayo Sports Management Limited, attracting sports fans, dignitaries, and residents from different parts of Abeokuta.

Managing director Yetunde Olopade expressed happiness with the event's outcome and praised the athletes and participants for their dedication.

She also thanked the Ogun State Government, sponsors, and partners, including Phlo, Bet9ja Foundation, 7UP, and Aquafina, for their support.

“We are delighted with the outcome of this year’s Abeokuta 10km Race. The quality, organisation, and enthusiasm shown by the participants have once again demonstrated what can be achieved when everyone comes together.

“We appreciate the Ogun State Government, our sponsors, partners, and everyone who contributed to making this race a colourful and successful event. Nilayo Sports Management Limited will continue to uphold the class and quality that the company is known for,” Mrs Olopade said.

Bukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission, noted the growing opportunities for athletes as sporting events increase across Nigeria.

He pointed out the equal prize money for both the men’s and women’s winners, saying this could help promote fairness in sports.

“I have always been a fan of equality. When you look at what Nilayo has done here, giving the same prize money to the men and women, it is something we should encourage,” he said.

“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.”

Chief Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, praised Nilayo Sports Management Limited for organizing another road race and recognized the support from Abeokuta residents.

Mr Dare said the event showed Nigeria's potential to host high-quality competitions while encouraging sports and healthy living.

“Nilayo has once again demonstrated that we can organise world-class sporting events in Nigeria. This is a top-class event, and the turnout of the people of Abeokuta shows the passion Nigerians have for sports and healthy living,” he said.

The race also allowed residents to join in fitness activities while showcasing Abeokuta’s potential as a venue for road races and other sports events.

Among the dignitaries present were the Ogun State Commissioner for Sports Development, Wasiu Isiaka; the Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Youth Development, Tunde Delu; former Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Adijat Motunrayo Adeleye; and former members of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Femi Allen Taylor and Idowu Olowofuja.