Three-time national champion and African Games bronze medallist Abbasiono Akpan has announced her support for the Athletic Heat 10th Anniversary Meet by sponsoring the women’s 400m hurdles, with the event set to be named the Abbasiono Akpan Women’s 400m Hurdles.
The competition will take place on November 7, 2026, at the Yaba College of Technology Sports Complex in Lagos, Nigeria, with Akpan rewarding the top four athletes in the event as part of her commitment to recognising and encouraging athletes.
Akpan described the sponsorship as her way of appreciating Athletic Heat for its outstanding contributions to athletics development over the past decade. She recalled receiving two runner-up awards from the organisation, describing the recognition as a memorable experience and expressing gratitude for the platform it has continued to provide for athletes.
“I want to use this medium to appreciate Athletic Heat for the amazing work they have been doing over the past 10 years. I can still recall receiving two runner-up awards from Athletic Heat, which was an amazing experience. I want to say thank you, and may God continue to bless Athletic Heat. One love,” Akpan said.
Explaining her decision to sponsor the women’s 400m hurdles, the three-time national champion emphasised the personal significance of the event, having experienced firsthand the discipline, sacrifice, dedication and hard work required to succeed as a hurdler.
“As a hurdler myself, this event is very special to my heart. I understand the discipline, sacrifice, dedication and hard work it takes to be an athlete. I want to give back and encourage other athletes who are working so hard to achieve their dreams,” she stated.
Akpan also highlighted the importance of the YabaTech track, describing it as a special venue that has contributed to the personal best performances of many athletes. She expressed excitement about the opportunity to see athletes compete and deliver outstanding performances at the anniversary meet.
She further expressed hope that her support would inspire and motivate athletes to remain committed to their goals, believe in themselves and continue working hard, while reminding them that their efforts and sacrifices do not go unnoticed.
“I hope this support inspires athletes, motivates them and encourages them to keep pushing, believing in themselves and trusting that their hard work does not go unnoticed. I am excited to see the performances our athletes will deliver,” she added.
Athletic Heat CEO Ese Oguma expressed appreciation to Akpan for supporting the anniversary meet and contributing to the development of athletics in Nigeria.
“We sincerely appreciate Abbasiono Akpan for supporting our 10th Anniversary Meet and for choosing to give back to the sport through the sponsorship of the women’s 400m hurdles. Her contribution goes beyond the financial support; it reflects a commitment to encouraging athletes, recognising their hard work and creating opportunities for the next generation. We are grateful for her belief in the vision of Athletic Heat and the work we have done over the past decade,” Oguma said.
Akpan concluded by encouraging athletes who have yet to register for the meet to complete their registration through A3 Tickets and be part of the historic celebration on November 7.
The Athletic Heat 10th Anniversary Meet, which also serves as a Pre-National Sports Festival meet, celebrates a decade of commitment to athletics development, athlete recognition and the promotion of track and field in Nigeria.
Akpan’s contribution further strengthens the growing support for the anniversary meet, demonstrating how accomplished athletes can give back to the sport, encourage the next generation and help create opportunities for others to excel.