By Fayobi Adedoyin
Lagos has become the focal point of African athletics as key figures in global and regional sports administration converge for the Africa Running Conference 2026, a platform aimed at advancing road running and encouraging wider participation across the continent.
The two-day gathering, holding from February 12 to 13, sets the tone for the upcoming Access Bank Lagos City Marathon and provides an avenue for administrators, technical experts and event organisers to exchange ideas on improving race organisation, athlete welfare and international standards.
Put together through a partnership involving World Athletics, the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) and the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA), the conference is centred on strengthening Africa’s connection with the global running community while promoting structured growth in mass participation events.
Several influential personalities are billed to speak, including World Athletics Vice President Jackson Tuwei, CAA President Ahmed Kalkaba Malboum and fellow World Athletics executive Adille Sumariwalla. Also lending their voices are Head of Running at World Athletics, Alessio Punzi, former marathon world record holder Paul Tergat and International Association of Ultrarunners President Nadeem Khan.
Nigeria is strongly represented at the forum, with National Sports Commission Director General Bukola Olopade, AFN President Tony Okowa and Road Running Commission head Aku Aghazu playing active roles. Managing Director of Nilayo Sports Management, Yetunde Olopade, alongside Lagos Women Run General Coordinator Tayo Popoola, are also participating in discussions focused on the future of distance running in the country.
Corporate and media stakeholders have equally joined the conversation, highlighting the growing commercial and broadcast value of road races. Representatives from Access Holdings, Access Corporation, Team 33 Production and SuperSport Nigeria are contributing insights on sponsorship and television production.
Activities commenced with delegate registration before technical sessions addressed key areas such as race measurement, officiating accuracy and performance benchmarks. Industry specialists are guiding conversations on maintaining credibility in competitions while ensuring that African races align with internationally accepted procedures.
Further panel discussions will explore topics including anti-doping compliance in elite road races, building lasting community partnerships and leveraging local media to achieve global visibility. Broadcast-focused sessions are also expected to outline strategies for enhancing viewer experience and expanding the sport’s audience.
With decision-makers and experts gathered in one city, the conference is widely seen as another step in positioning Lagos as a major hub for distance running while reinforcing Africa’s growing influence in the global athletics space.
