Charity Half Marathon to Boost Neonatal Healthcare in FCT Public Hospitals

Charity Half Marathon to Boost Neonatal Healthcare in FCT Public Hospitals

By BSN Sports 

Run Club Abuja (RCA) will stage the sixth edition of its Annual Charity Half Marathon on July 11, with proceeds from the event earmarked for the purchase of life-saving neonatal equipment for two public hospitals in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Organisers said the initiative is aimed at strengthening maternal and neonatal healthcare services by providing critical medical equipment worth ₦12.4 million to hospitals serving rural communities, with the goal of helping reduce infant mortality.

Chairperson of the Local Organising Committee, Peju Lawanson, said the annual marathon has evolved beyond a fitness event into a platform for community development and social impact.

According to her, every participant, volunteer and donor will contribute to improving the survival chances of newborns while supporting efforts to build a healthier future for families across the FCT.

Themed "Run with Rhythm," this year's event is expected to attract about 1,000 participants competing in the 21.1km half marathon, 10km and 5km race categories.

President of Run Club Abuja, Buchi Onyegbule, said the sell-out of all race slots reflects the confidence the fitness community and supporters of charitable causes have continued to place in the event. He added that this year's edition recorded an increase in virtual registrations from participants across Africa and other parts of the world, highlighting the growing international appeal of the marathon.

Onyegbule assured participants that the club has prioritised their safety and welfare by putting in place comprehensive medical and safety measures along the race route. He added that runners will have access to adequate hydration points, finisher's medals and optional health screening during kit collection.

Returning as headline sponsor for the third consecutive year, Norrenberger Financial Group said its continued support underscores its commitment to improving maternal and child healthcare through impactful community initiatives.

Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Tony Edeh, said the partnership has grown beyond corporate sponsorship into a long-term investment in community development.

He noted that the neonatal equipment to be procured through this year's marathon will help improve healthcare outcomes for mothers and newborns, while demonstrating the important role of private sector partnerships in supporting public healthcare delivery.

Also speaking, the Group Head of Strategy and Sustainability at Norrenberger, Amani Momodu, described maternal and neonatal health as a critical national priority that requires sustained collaboration among the private sector, civil society organisations and local communities.

According to him, the partnership aligns with the company's sustainability agenda and contributes to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3, which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all.

Beyond promoting healthy living, the RCA Charity Half Marathon has continued to serve as a platform for mobilising individuals, businesses and development partners to invest in healthcare initiatives, reinforcing the value of collective action in addressing critical public health challenges.