Run Club Abuja hosts 10km run aiding underprivileged women

Posted : 24 February 2025

To mark International Women’s Day 2025, Run Club Abuja, in partnership with other organizations, organized a 10-kilometer run aimed at supporting underprivileged young women in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The Chairwoman of the inaugural Abuja Women’s Run, Ibe Onyebuchi, highlighted that the initiative was designed to raise funds for sanitary pads, benefiting over 500 female students across five secondary schools in Abuja. She emphasized that while their running club already fosters a strong community, this event provided an opportunity to celebrate International Women’s Day, which is just around the corner.

Onyebuchi explained that the timing of the event was adjusted due to Ramadan, ensuring inclusivity while honoring women. She further noted that the funds collected would be used to distribute sanitary pads to 500 girls, with each of the five selected public schools receiving support for 100 students. This effort aligns with their commitment to making a tangible difference in young girls’ lives by addressing their hygiene needs.

She expressed optimism about future editions of the run, aiming to expand the impact. Reflecting on the success of the first edition, Onyebuchi rated it highly, stating that all available slots were filled. She noted that although approximately 500 women participated, many others had shown interest but could not be accommodated due to capacity constraints.

Speaking on participation, she mentioned that they were documenting the number of attendees as well as virtual runners who joined from locations such as Kaduna, Kano, and Lagos. To acknowledge their involvement, organizers planned to verify their records and send medals to those who completed the run remotely.

Henry Okelue, the founder of Run Club Abuja, shared that their goal was to raise 3 million naira to provide sanitary pads for 500 girls over a six-month period. He stressed the importance of recognizing and uplifting women, particularly as Women’s Month approached. Expressing satisfaction with the turnout, he described the enthusiasm as overwhelming and reaffirmed their dedication to supporting young girls through this initiative.

Okelue further explained that the funds would directly contribute to addressing period poverty in Abuja’s public schools. He expressed hope that more women would participate in subsequent events, with men playing a supportive role. He emphasized that the 10-kilometer run was chosen over other event formats because exercise promotes wellness, helps manage blood pressure, and enhances self-confidence. Many participants, he noted, were engaging in a running event for the first time, and their willingness to step out of their comfort zones was commendable.

Project Manager Stephanie Adamu encouraged other organizations to take action in the fight against period poverty. She described the event as an overwhelming success, surpassing expectations. While they had to turn away additional participants due to limited slots, she remained hopeful that future editions would allow for greater inclusion. She called on various agencies and clubs to take inspiration from this event and join efforts to support young girls in need.

Run Club Abuja hosts 10km run aiding underprivileged women

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