The sixth edition of the Run Club Abuja, RCA, Charity Half Marathon has generated N12.4 million to procure neonatal healthcare equipment for two public hospitals in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.
Jonathan Ameh, member, Media and Publicity Committee, in a statement quoting the President of Run Club Abuja, Buchi Onyebule disclosed that the funds would be used to provide neonatal equipment, including incubators, nebulisers and resuscitators, for selected public hospitals in Abaji and Kuje area councils.
He said the intervention was aimed at improving access to specialized newborn care and reducing infant mortality in the communities.
“Participation in the annual charity event has continued to grow, reflecting increasing public support for the initiative,” he said.
Onyebule said the marathon had grown from about 100 participants at its inception to about 250 in the second edition and attracted about 1,000 runners this year.
“Our objective is not only to promote healthy living through fitness but also to give back to society by supporting critical healthcare needs,” he said.
The Chairperson of the Local Organizing Committee, Peju Lawanson, said the club had evolved from a fitness group into a platform for humanitarian intervention.
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Lawanson was quoted in the statement as saying that this year’s project focused on strengthening maternal and child healthcare through the provision of essential neonatal equipment. “We have grown into a community that supports the less privileged,” he said.
The Managing Director of Norrenberger Group, Tony Edeh, on his part was quoted as saying that the company had supported the charity marathon for three consecutive years.
Edeh said the partnership aligned with the company’s commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles while supporting initiatives with positive social impact. He noted that more Nigerians were embracing charitable causes through sporting activities.
Also speaking, Marie-Jo Tafforeau, a French participant who completed her first half marathon, described running as beneficial to physical and mental well being. “I started running 20 years ago for my health. Running is good for your body and your mind,” she said.
Her husband, Sylvain Tafforeau, encouraged people to embrace regular exercise at their own pace, adding that running also provided opportunities for social interaction. He said joining RCA had helped him integrate into life in Nigeria.
Human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, commended the organizers for using sports to support healthcare interventions.
Sowore, however, said charitable initiatives should complement government efforts in providing essential healthcare services. He encouraged more Nigerians to participate in sporting activities to promote healthy living.
The annual RCA Charity Half Marathon combines fitness with fundraising to support healthcare interventions and other community development initiatives in the FCT.
NAN
