The Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Honourable Bukola Olopade, has underscored the need to actively encourage and support women in sports as he confirmed his attendance at the third edition of the Ogun Women Run.
The event, organized by Brussels Sports Management Limited, will take place on Saturday, December 7, 2024, in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Hon. Olopade described the Ogun Women Run as a pivotal platform for showcasing Nigeria’s vast sporting talents and for championing women striving to excel in a field traditionally fraught with challenges.
“It is pertinent to attend the 3rd edition of the Ogun Women Run, considering the pool of talents we have in our nation and also the dire need to continue to support women in sports, as data has shown that the pathway has always been more difficult for females,” Olopade stated.
The Ogun Women Run is a 5-kilometer race dedicated to empowering women and promoting healthy living.
Open to female runners aged 25 to 60, the race will commence at Sapon and end at the iconic MKO Abiola Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta.
Highlighting Nigeria’s recent successes on the global stage, Olopade praised the achievements of female athletes, noting their critical role in enhancing the nation’s sporting reputation.
“Notwithstanding, casting our minds back to international competitions and events in recent times, our women have done the country proud in various sports, winning several medals and accolades.
We need to continuously support them as this terrain is not easy, especially for them,” he emphasized.
As the Ogun Women Run approaches, Hon. Olopade urged organizers to ensure that the event inspires girls and women to pursue sports, break boundaries, and contribute to grassroots development.
“This race must stand as a beacon of hope and empowerment, encouraging women to embrace their potential and lead healthier lives,” he added.
The event is poised to celebrate the resilience of Nigerian women in sports and spark conversations about gender equity in athletics.
