World News Update

PRESS STATEMENT  The National Sports Commission (NSC) has officially constituted the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 3rd edition of the National Para Games, reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and the continued development of para sports in Nigeria. The National Para Games is an annual multi-sport event organized by the Federal Government of Nigeria through the NSC. The Games provide a competitive platform for Nigerian men and women living with disabilities, promoting excellence, healthy competition, and national unity through sports. The Commission has now constituted a thirteen-member Local Organising Committee made up of men and women of integrity to deliver a world-class Games.  The Committee is chaired by the Director, National Sports Festival & Para Sports Department, Mrs. Thecla Opara, while Mrs. Hauwa Saibu, serves as Secretary. Other members of the Committee include Raphael Odo, Mohammed Rabiu, Abdullahi Libata, Lambu Umar, Dr. Ozi Sal...

 PRESS RELEASE Nilayo Sports Management Limited extends its deepest appreciation to the tens of thousands of runners who participated in the 2026 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon. We remain immensely proud of every athlete’s determination and the vibrant spirit that continues to make this marathon a defining moment for Lagos and Nigeria. However, we acknowledge with sincere concern that during medal distribution following the 10KM race category, an unexpected and dangerous crowd surge occurred at the 10KM medal collection point. In the interest of protecting the safety of our runners, volunteers, and staff, medal issuance was temporarily suspended while the situation was brought under control. This decision was taken solely as a safety precaution to prevent potential injuries. Most importantly, our hearts go out to everyone who was affected by the surge or experienced distress during this period. We understand the excitement and emotion that come with crossing the finish line, and w...

The 2026 edition of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon came to a thrilling conclusion on Saturday, delivering a day filled with intrigue, suspense, action, love, and world-class entertainment as over 25,000 athletes converged on Nigeria’s commercial capital for Africa’s premier road race. Kenyan sensation Ezra Kering powered to victory, breasting the tape in an impressive 2:11:55 to claim the coveted $50,000 first prize. In a race marked by tactical brilliance and a dramatic final stretch, Uganda’s Lomoi Samuel followed closely in 2:11:59, earning $40,000 for second place. Fellow Ugandan Namutala Lumbasi completed the podium sweep with a strong finish in 2:12:25, taking home $30,000. In the women’s race, Ethiopia reigned supreme as Dinke Meleka surged to victory in 2:37:36, demonstrating poise and power to secure the championship title. Kenya’s Cheyech Daniel finished a close second in 2:37:43, while another Ethiopian, Zewdalem Getaw, placed third with a time of 2:38:59. Amid the elit...

Kenya’s Ezra Kipchumba Kering delivered a Valentine’s Day masterclass, storming to victory at the 11th edition of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon on Saturday, 14 February 2026. Kipchumba crossed the finish line at Eko Atlantic City in an impressive time of 2:11:55, clinching the $50,000 top prize in one of Africa’s most prestigious road races. Uganda dominated the other podium spots, with Lomoi Samuel finishing a close second in 2:11:59, while Namutala Kephar Lumbasi secured third place in 2:12:25, capping off a fiercely competitive men’s race. The Gold Label marathon is organised by Nilayo Sports Management Limited, under the leadership of Managing Director Mrs. Yetunde Olopade, and continues to raise the bar for long-distance running on the continent. In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Dinke Meseret Meleka claimed top honours, crossing the line in 2:37:36. Kenya’s Daniel Flomena Cheyech followed closely in 2:37:43, while Ethiopia’s Getaw Wgagen Zewdalem finished third in 2:38:59. An...

PRESS RELEASE The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has been honoured with the prestigious Sports Administrator of the Year award at the New Telegraph Awards, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to sports development in Nigeria. The award, which took place on Friday, celebrated Olopade’s transformative leadership, administrative excellence and longstanding commitment to building sustainable sports structures across the country. A seasoned sports administrator, Olopade has served twice as Commissioner for Sports in Ogun State, where he spearheaded progressive reforms and talent development initiatives. His leadership footprint also spans multiple strategic roles within Nigeria’s sports ecosystem. He is a former President of the Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation, where he championed inclusivity and the advancement of para-sports.  He also served as Chief Operating Officer of the Nigeria National League (NNL), strengtheni...

Lagos is set for a historic showdown as 28,000 registered runners hit the streets for the 2026 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, themed “New Steps, Fresh Goals – 14th Feb.” From elite athletes to fitness enthusiasts, the energy across the city is electric as participants prepare to take on either the 42KM full marathon or the 10KM race in one of Africa’s most prestigious road races. *Mainland Runners Covered* To ensure a smooth and stress-free race morning, organizers have put transportation plans in place for runners coming from the Mainland. Pickup Location: Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere First Bus: 4:00 AM Last Bus: 5:00 AM Buses will depart promptly, and runners are strongly advised to arrive early as race day waits for no one. The organizing committee emphasized that participants should not wait until the final bus to avoid unnecessary delays. *Medal Cut-Off Time – 12:30 PM* All finishers who cross the finish line on or before 12:30 PM will receive an official finisher’s medal. A...