The global reach of Nilayo Sports Management Company Limited has been significantly enhanced with the recognition of its Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Yetunde Olopade, as one of Africa’s 50 most influential women in sports.
Yetunde was celebrated as part of the prestigious 2025 class by the Africa Sports Ventures Group (ASVG), joining a remarkable group of African women who are empowering girls and women across the continent.
A trailblazer in road racing, Yetunde Olopade is instrumental in transforming the landscape of marathon events in Nigeria, notably through the internationally acclaimed Access Bank Lagos City Marathon. Her entrepreneurial acumen and boardroom expertise have greatly expanded the influence of Nilayo Sports Management in the sports business and the road racing ecosystem across Africa.
Currently leading Nigeria’s foremost sports management company, she plays a pivotal role in enhancing the profile of road racing nationwide. Her organisation is also set to host the upcoming Premium Trust Bank Abuja City Half Marathon, scheduled for 6th December 2025.
The Africa Sports Ventures Group (ASVG) has announced that the award ceremony will take place in Dakar, Senegal, in 2026, honouring the 50 most influential African women in sports for their contributions to inspiring and promoting female participation in athletics.
Among the notable women recognised alongside Yetunde are Kirsty Coventry, President of the International Olympic Committee; Fatima Samoura, former FIFA Secretary General; Augusta Teima, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Sports; and legendary Nigerian Olympian Amb. Mary Onyali, among others.
