Abuja Charity Half Marathon Raises ₦12.4m To Save Newborn Lives

The sixth edition of the Run Club Abuja (RCA) Charity Half Marathon has raised ₦12.4 million to procure life-saving neonatal equipment for two public hospitals in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), in a major boost to maternal and child healthcare.

Funds generated from the annual charity race will be used to purchase incubators, nebulisers and resuscitators for selected hospitals in the Abaji and Kuje Area Councils, where access to specialised neonatal care remains limited.

Speaking after the event, President of Run Club Abuja, Buchi Onyebule, said the remarkable growth in participation reflected increasing public confidence in the initiative and its impact on society.

He revealed that the event, which attracted about 100 participants in its maiden edition and 250 in its second year, drew around 1,000 runners this year, including fitness enthusiasts, philanthropists and social advocates from across Nigeria.

Onyebule said that while promoting healthy living remains a key objective of the club, making meaningful contributions to society has become an equally important part of its mission.

Chairperson of the Local Organising Committee, Peju Lawanson, said the annual event had evolved beyond a fitness gathering into a platform for humanitarian intervention.

She explained that this year’s edition focused on improving maternal and child healthcare by providing essential neonatal equipment capable of saving the lives of vulnerable newborns.

“We have grown into a community that gives back to society. Every year, our flagship event is dedicated to improving the lives of the less privileged. This year, we are supporting selected hospitals in Abaji and Kuje with neonatal equipment, including incubators, nebulisers and resuscitators, to help reduce infant mortality,” Lawanson said.

Principal sponsor, Norrenberger Group, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that combine healthy living with meaningful social impact.

Managing Director of Norrenberger, Tony Edeh, said the company had partnered with the charity marathon for three consecutive years, describing it as a unique platform that promotes wellness while supporting vulnerable communities.

“What makes this initiative special is that more Nigerians are embracing charity, adopting healthier lifestyles and supporting those in need. We are proud to be part of this journey,” Edeh said.

The race also attracted international participants, including French couple Marie-Jo Tafforeau and Sylvain Tafforeau.

Marie-Jo, who completed her first-ever half marathon, described running as a powerful tool for maintaining both physical and mental wellbeing.

“I started running 20 years ago for my health. Running is good for your body, but also for your mind,” she said.

Her husband, Sylvain, encouraged people to exercise at their own pace while enjoying the social benefits of the sport.

“I run for the enjoyment and the opportunity to run with many people. Everyone should run at their own pace, have fun with friends and stay healthy,” he said, adding that joining Run Club Abuja had helped him settle into life in Nigeria.

Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, who also took part in the event, praised the organisers for using sport as a vehicle for social change.

He urged more Nigerians to embrace physical activity while noting that charitable efforts should complement—not replace—the government’s responsibility to provide quality healthcare.

“I commend the organisers for this initiative and encourage more Nigerians to participate in sporting activities. This is one way to stay healthy, safe and fit. I hope to see even more people at future editions,” Sowore said.

The Run Club Abuja Charity Half Marathon has grown into one of the capital’s leading fitness events, successfully blending sport with philanthropy to raise funds for critical healthcare interventions while promoting healthier lifestyles across Nigeria.