The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olapade, has hailed the Ogun Women Run as a significant force for women’s empowerment and development in sports.
Speaking on Saturday in Abeokuta during the flag-off of the 5-kilometer road race, Hon. Olapade emphasized the initiative’s role in nurturing untapped talent and creating opportunities for Nigerian athletes to excel on global stages.
Citing legendary athletes like Mary Onyali and Falilat Ogunkoya, he encouraged Ogun State and others to prioritize uncovering and nurturing female sporting talent.
“The Ogun Women Run is more than just a race—it is a movement. It signifies a commitment to ensuring that no woman is left behind in the journey to achieving greatness in sports,” Hon. Olapade remarked.
The race, organized by Brussel Sports Management Limited, brought together women aged 25 to 60, showcasing a powerful blend of athleticism and determination.
Starting at Sapon and ending at the iconic MKO Abiola Stadium, the event highlighted Nigeria’s rich pool of budding female athletes.
Aderonke Alabi claimed first place and a prize of ₦500,000, followed by Affigbo Esther and Olude Kehinde, who received ₦300,000 and ₦200,000, respectively.
Demonstrating goodwill, Hon. Olapade rewarded other outstanding athletes with cash bonuses in dollars, while Chief Solomon Ogba, former president of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, donated an additional ₦1,000,000 to the participants.
“This race exemplifies the power of sports to unite and empower women,” Hon. Olapade said, reiterating the NSC’s commitment to supporting initiatives that unlock the full potential of female athletes.
The Ogun Women Run has once again underscored the transformative potential of sports, fostering dreams and nurturing champions of the future.
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