JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
The sixth edition of the Run Club Abuja (RCA) charity half marathon will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, with organizers aiming to reduce infant mortality through the provision of life-saving neonatal equipment to two public hospitals in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Organizers said proceeds from the annual charity run will be used to procure critical neonatal medical equipment worth ₦12.4 million for hospitals, especially those serving rural communities, to improve maternal and child healthcare and give newborns a better chance of survival.
The annual event, which has become one of Abuja’s premier charitable sporting initiatives, combines fitness and philanthropy by mobilizing runners, corporate organizations and members of the public in support of health interventions. Project reports
Race with a purpose
Speaking ahead of the event, Local Organizing Committee President Peju Lawanson said the charity marathon has evolved from a sporting competition to a platform for community development and social impact.
According to her, this year’s intervention reflects the club’s commitment to addressing one of Nigeria’s critical public health challenges by supporting health facilities with equipment that improves neonatal care.
He said every participant, volunteer, donor and sponsor will directly contribute to saving lives through the initiative.
“The annual charity half marathon has grown beyond a fitness challenge to become a platform for community development. It encourages Nigerians to unite for a cause that directly improves lives.
About 1,000 runners are expected
“Every runner, volunteer and donor helps give newborns a better chance at survival. This is an opportunity for citizens to help build a healthier future for the next generation,” Lawanson said.
The charity race, themed “Run with Pace,” is expected to attract around 1,000 participants who will compete in the 21.1 kilometer half marathon, 10 kilometer and 5 kilometer races.
Organizers said the event will bring together elite runners, recreational athletes, fitness enthusiasts and corporate teams, all united by the common goal of supporting better healthcare delivery.
Run Club Abuja President, Buchi Onyegbule, said the full sale of available race spots demonstrates the faith participants and partners continued to place in the initiative.
According to him, this year’s edition also saw an increase in virtual participants, with entries received from outside Nigeria and different continents.
“The fact that all available slots have been sold out reflects the trust placed in Run Club Abuja by the fitness community and change-makers across the country and beyond. This year we have also seen increased participation from runners outside Nigeria and Africa through our virtual racing category,” Onyegbule said.
Safety remains the priority
Onyegbule assured participants that adequate measures were taken to ensure their safety and well-being during the event.
He revealed that organizers have set up sufficient hydration points, medical support teams and other safety measures along the race routes.
He added that participants will receive commemorative medals at the finish line, while the kit collection exercise will also feature optional health screening services as part of efforts to promote preventive healthcare.
“Our priority remains the safety and well-being of each participant. We have made adequate preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all runners,” he said.
Norrenberger reaffirms his commitment
Returning as title sponsor for the third consecutive year, Norrenberger Financial Group said its continued partnership reflects its confidence in the measurable social impact of the charity marathon and its commitment to improving maternal and child healthcare in Nigeria.
Group managing director and CEO Tony Edeh described the partnership as more than just corporate sponsorship, saying it has become a long-term investment in community development.
According to him, the neonatal equipment that will be provided at this year’s event will directly contribute to saving the lives of mothers and newborns.
“Our support for this initiative goes beyond sponsorship. It is an investment in community development because we believe in programs that deliver tangible, accountable results.
“The equipment provided during this year’s competition will help save lives and demonstrate how private sector partnerships can complement government efforts in strengthening healthcare delivery,” Edeh said.
Partnership for sustainable development
Also, the business group’s Head of Strategy and Sustainability, Amani Momodu, described maternal and newborn healthcare as one of Nigeria’s most pressing development challenges.
Addressing the challenge, he said, requires ongoing collaboration between government institutions, private organizations, civil society groups and community-level organizations.
According to him, Norrenberger’s partnership with Run Club Abuja is in line with the company’s sustainability agenda and contributes to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3, which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all.
Momodu noted that measurable community impact remains central to the organization’s corporate sustainability initiatives.
Sport drives social impact
In addition to promoting healthy lifestyles and fitness, the Run Club Abuja Charity Half Marathon has continued to establish itself as a platform to mobilize citizens, businesses and development partners to invest in critical health interventions.
Over the years, proceeds from the annual race have supported various charitable causes, strengthening sport’s role as a vehicle for community development and humanitarian intervention.
Organizers have expressed optimism that this year’s edition will not only record another successful sporting outing but will also make a significant contribution to reducing infant mortality and improving access to quality neonatal healthcare in the Federal Capital Territory.
