Nilayo Sports ready for 2023 Abeokuta10km race

Damilola Ajibola

All is now set for the 2023 Lotus Bank Abeokuta 10km race organised by Nilayo Sports Management Limited (NSML), scheduled to hold on September 9.

The race which will commence at Iyana- Oloke through Onikolobo and terminated at Alake’s palace is sponsored by Lotus Bank.

The Managing Director of NSML, Chief Bukola Olopade at the World Press Conference held at the iconic Centenary Hall, Ake, Abeokuta today, explained that modalities are in place to have a hitch free event in September.

In his remark, the former commissioner for youth and Sports in the Gateway state appreciated the sponsors, the Ogun State government, the Media and other stakeholders that are involved in the success story.

He said “We are delighted to be here again, we are already looking forward to the big day, we are quite optimistic that having put all requirements in place, we will record another successful outing”.

Mr. Seyi Johnson, project Manager of NSML confirmed that 42 elite runners have already expressed interest in taking part, while indigent runners will also the part of the race.

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 smile home with dollars.

There’s also a One Million Naira prize money for the first indigenous runner in the male and female categories.

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, Mrs. 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.

The Group Head, South West Marketing, Lotus Bank, Mr. Folajinmi Brodie-Mends made it known in his remarks, that the company is partnering with Nilayo Sports Management Limited based on track records and antecedents, he assured 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.