Seventeen states and the Federal Capital Territory have indicated interest in the 2015 Olympic Day Run which has been slated for Saturday, June 17.

The states include Abia, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Ebonyi, Ekiti, Edo, Ondo, Rivers and Ogun states. Others include Ogun, Osun, Imo, Lagos, Plateau, Kwara and the Federal Capital Territory. More states are expected to show interest before the deadline.

Last year, over 4 million Nigerians from across the country took part in the annual event which is organised by the Nigeria Olympic Committee in conjunction with the Nigeria Sports For All Commission. Olympic Day Run provides a platform for people of all ages and abilities to experience the thrills and frills associated with the Olympic Games in their localities.

“It is an ideal platform to highlight the benefits of physical activity which allows people to learn about the Olympic values, imbibe them and put them to practice in their every day lives,” Chairman of the Commission, Henry Amike said. “It is not a competition for prizes, rather an event to remind people about the benefits of physical exercise which is to keep them healthy.”

According to Austin Odijie, the 2015 Olympic Day celebration will, apart from jogging and aerobics, include cultural displays and educational programmes such as concerts and exhibition, Olympic quiz competition and prizes would be awarded to students who excel in the competition.

The educational programme is expected to hold on Thursday, 25th and 26th June.

The NOC and the Sports For All Commission are appealing to corporate bodies to identify with the programme and sponsor the event.

‘’The IOC has re-christened it from Olympic Day Run to Olympic Day activities. That is why is going to be an all fun-packed show that will make all Nigerians come out and walk, run and exercise for their well being. Remember, Health is wealth’’, Amike a former hurdler of repute with medals for Nigeria said.