Lagos: The National Sports Commission (NSC), in collaboration with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) and World Athletics, has finalized plans to host the Africa Road Running Race in Lagos in February 2026. The event will be the first of its kind on the continent and is set to be a corporate event rather than a competition for professional athletes.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Alexis Cisternino, Head of Road Race Running at World Athletics, mentioned at a press conference in Abuja that World Athletics endorsed the initiative due to the rapid growth of sports in Nigeria and Africa. Cisternino highlighted that the Lagos race is part of a broader strategy to promote the culture of road running across Africa. A two-day technical workshop will also be organized to support the development of the sport on the continent.
NSC Chairman, Shehu Dikko, stated that the Commission supports the race as it aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Dikko emphasized the importance of strategic efforts to develop long-distance running in Nigeria, noting the popularity of road races in many Nigerian cities. The NSC is working to revive training centers in Plateau, Taraba, and Adamawa to further this goal. Dikko expressed optimism that the event would increase public interest in road running and confirmed that prizes would be awarded to both local and international participants.
NSC Director-General, Bukola Olopade, revealed that efforts are underway to involve all athletics federations across Africa and attract corporate sponsors to the Lagos event. He praised World Athletics for choosing Nigeria over other nations such as South Africa and Kenya. Solomon Ogba, Second Vice President of the AFN, added that the race would elevate Lagos as a leading destination for global sporting events. The Africa Road Running Race is scheduled to take place shortly after the 2026 Lagos Marathon in February.