ABEOKUTA– About 44 A-List foreign athletes have indicated interest to participate in the Lotus bank Abeokuta 10km race, slated to hold in September 9th, 2023.
This was revealed by the organisers at a world press conference held on Wednesday, at the centenary hall Ake, Abeokuta, the Ogun state capital.
Speaking at the press briefing, the Managing Director of Nilayo Sports Management Limited (NSML), Chief Bukola Olopade explained that modalities are in place to have a hitch free event.
In his remark, the former commissioner for youth and Sports in Ogun state appreciated the sponsors, the Ogun State government, the Media and other stakeholders that are involved in the success story.
“We are delighted to be here again, we are already looking forward the big day, we are quite optimistic that having put all requirements in place, we will record another successful outing”, he added
Project Manager of NSML Mr. Seyi Johnson while confirming that 42 elite runners have already expressed interest in taking part, while indigent runners will also the part of the race.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Ogun State, Dr. Yusuf Adegboyega Kudus who was represented by the General Manager, Ogun State Sports Council, Iyabo Rotimi expressed the readiness of the state government to continue making provision for an enabling environment for sports to thrive.
He reiterated the state government’s resolve to stage the best ever National Sports Festival in the history of Nigeria, come 2024.
Meanwhile, the Group Head, South West Marketing, Lotus Bank, Folajinmi Brodie-Mends noted that the bank is partnering with Nilayo Sports Management Limited based on track records and antecedents, while assuring that Lotus Bank will continue to take the front seat whenever quality comes to the front burner.
Also at the event were the Head, Brand Communications, Lotus Bank, Mr. Bashir Salami, Relationship Manager, Lotus Bank Abeokuta, Mrs. Funmi Aberuagba, the Chief Operating Officer, Nilayo Sports Management Limited, Mr. Ebidowei Oweifie, the Media and people from different walks of Life.
As part of prizes for the event, the first elite runners to get to the finish line will get five thousand dollars each in the male and female categories, other athletes who complete the top five will also be rewarded
One Million Naira prize money has been penciled for the first indigenous runner in the male and female categories.
The prestigious road race will commence at Iyana Oloke, Onikolobo and will terminate at the Alake Palace, where the headline sponsor’s is also located.
