Wakathon (TM) 2026 is inviting Lagosians to make a different kind of move: to slow down, step outside, and walk intentionally for their health in a city defined by speed, noise, and constant movement
The event is scheduled for the last Saturday of March 28, 2026
Time: 7AM
Location: Catholic Church of Divine Mercy, Admiralty Way, Lekki Phase One with also free health check.
Wakathon is not just another fitness gathering. It is a growing public health movement built on a simple but powerful philosophy-
movement is medicine. Through walking, the initiative promotes preventive healthcare, mental well-being, and social connection in Africa’s most populous city.
Speaking through a statement by its founder and health advocate, Lorenz Mba, Waka Community International Foundation described Wakathon as a “people-first health intervention” designed to make wellness accessible to everyone, regardless of age, fitness level, or social status.
This year’s edition, to be held in honour of Dr Ade Alakija, brings together Q-life, HEI, and Waka Community International Foundation in a collaborative effort to shift how Nigerians think about health. Unlike marathons or competitive races, Wakathon places emphasis on participation rather than performance, creating a safe, inclusive environment for seniors, families, professionals, and first-time walkers.
Beyond the physical walk, participants are exposed to practical health education on hydration, nutrition, mental wellness, sleep, and healthy ageing. The goal is not to create athletes, but to build habits-encouraging everyday choices that reduce the risk of lifestyle-related diseases and improve quality of life.
For partners and sponsors, Wakathon represents a new model of health advocacy: visible, community-driven, emotionally engaging, and measurable. Every step taken is recorded not only as distance covered, but as data supporting broader public health conversations and policy advocacy.
Wakathon’s impact is further strengthened by Waka Community International Foundation’s growing global footprint. Founded in 2021 by Lorenz Mba, the Foundation has evolved into a wellness movement with members in over 48 countries, promoting healthy living through its core pillars of walking, nutrition, hydration, sleep, and mental well-being.
In 2025, the organisation made history as the first Nigerian foundation to independently advertise on the iconic Times Square billboard in New York-an achievement that symbolised its transition from a local initiative to a global health voice. The feature was not just a branding moment; it reinforced Waka’s mission to place African-led health solutions on the world stage.
At the heart of this mission remains Wakathon, now connecting communities across continents under the rallying call #WakaMakesSense. From the bright lights of New York to the busy streets of Lagos, the message is clear: preventive health does not have to be complicated.
Sometimes, the most revolutionary act is simply putting one foot in front of the other.