Yetunde Olopade, the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Nilayo Sports Management Company Limited, has been recognized as one of Africa’s most influential women in sports, joining the esteemed 2025 class of honorees by the Africa Sports Ventures Group (ASVG).
This prestigious accolade is a testament to Olopade’s tireless efforts in shaping the future of road races on the continent. Under her leadership, Nilayo Sports has organized some of Nigeria’s biggest marathons, including the internationally acclaimed Access Bank Lagos City Marathon.
Olopade’s exceptional entrepreneurship and boardroom skills have significantly expanded Nilayo Sports’ impact on the sports business and road racing ecosystem in Africa.
Her company is currently gearing up for the Premium Trust Bank Abuja City Half Marathon, scheduled to take place on December 6, 2025.
The ASVG has announced that the award ceremony will be held in Dakar, Senegal in 2026, celebrating the 50 most influential African women in sports for their inspiration and promotion of women participation in sports. Olopade joins an illustrious list of African sports women, including IOC President Kirsty Coventry, former FIFA Secretary General Fatima Samoura, and legendary Nigerian Olympian Amb. Mary Onyali.
This recognition is a testament to Olopade’s dedication to empowering women in sports and her contributions to the growth of sports in Africa.
