The National Sports Commission (NSC), in partnership with World Athletics and the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), is set to host the first-ever Africa Running Conference in Lagos, marking a major milestone for sports development on the continent.
The event, which aims to promote health, fitness, and athletic excellence, will also spotlight Nigeria’s growing role in the global sports ecosystem.
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Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko said the conference aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision to transform sports into a driver of national economic growth.
“This conference is not just about running,” Dikko said. “It reflects our commitment to building a thriving sports economy — one that creates jobs, attracts investment, and enhances Nigeria’s global reputation.”
Dikko highlighted road running as a unique opportunity for Nigeria, noting that interest has surged nationwide. “Every state now wants to be involved,” he said. “That shows the potential for lasting impact.”
NSC Director General Bukola Olopade praised the partnership with World Athletics, calling the event “a milestone moment” for Nigerian sports. “This proves that the Tinubu administration’s sports reforms are working. We’re moving from being a consumption-based sports nation to one that produces and hosts world-class events,” he said.
Olopade added that the decision by World Athletics to choose Lagos over countries with historic marathons such as Kenya and South Africa reflects confidence in Nigeria’s ongoing reforms and capacity to deliver.
World Athletics’ Head of Running and Mass Participation, Alessio Punzi, described the conference as “a turning point for African road running,” noting that it will feature technical workshops for athletics federations across the continent.
He said the Lagos conference is “about building a full ecosystem — from grassroots participation to elite performance.”
The Africa Running Conference, the first of its kind, will serve as a platform for collaboration between governments, the private sector, and the sporting community, reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a leader in promoting health, wellness, and sporting excellence across Africa.
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