Jan 18, 2025 / News
Co-Authored by Anna Molisova (Air Quality Project Manager, World Athletics), Otonye Iworima (Project Officer, Nilayo Sports), and Waziri Mainasara A. (Coordinator, UrbanBetter Lagos Cityzens Hub), this blog post gives insight into the World Athletics-Led “Running For Clean Air Lagos” Project.
The benefits of regular physical activity for our health are undeniable. Exercise strengthens both body and mind, enhancing physical fitness and mental well-being. But what if the conditions, which we exercise in, are not ideal? What if the air around us is polluted? And what if you can improve the air by exercising?
Launched earlier this year, Running for Clean Air Lagos is a project addressing air pollution in Nigeria’s largest city, using city marathons as a powerful platform. By integrating air quality monitoring and public awareness campaigns into road running events, such as the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, the project seeks to make clean air a priority for city governments, event organisers, and the public. Facilitated by World Athletics and funded by the Clean Air Fund, the project is locally led by two organisations: UrbanBetter and Nilayo Sports Management Limited. Together, these organisations work towards healthier urban environments and better conditions for physical activity.
“UrbanBetter Cityzens aim is to increase the demand for healthy and sustainable urban places through citizen science and physical activity, and also to enhance youth participation in urban decision-making. We have done a lot of advocacy around embracing a healthy and sustainable environment, sensitising the public about the risks of exposure to air pollution. Together, physical activity and clean air contribute to such environments by promoting longevity, vitality, and a higher quality of life. And while it is a good idea to exercise, it is equally important to be mindful of the conditions in which you exercise. Because of that we partnered with the World Athletics’ project Running for Clean Air Lagos.”
“As a sports company, it is our ambition to bring as many Nigerian people as possible to embrace physical activity. However, we are equally mindful of the conditions in which our people exercise. We care about the environment of our events, running them with purpose and intention. And because clean air is one of those important conditions, for the 2025 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, we partnered with the World Athletics’ project Running for Clean Air.”
Leaning on actual air quality data
Earlier this year, as part of the project, we installed an air quality sensor at the National Stadium Surulele. The initial data revealed that, compared to other locations in Lagos, this area is suitable for running and exercising. During the first half of the measuring period (August-October), the Air Quality Index (AQI) stayed primarily at fair or moderate levels, as shown in the calendar plots below.
Exercising in poor air quality
If we look at the following month, November, we can see that the air quality got considerably worse. There might be several reasons for that, one of them possibly the fact that the year moved into the dry season which means more dust and other solid pollutants flying in the air. Despite these challenges, the key takeaway is clear: for the general population, it is better to stay active even in such suboptimal air quality because the health benefits of physical activity outweigh the risks associated with poor air quality. For professional athletes, seeking tailored guidance is recommended.
So yes, stay active, go for that run—but also stay informed about air quality. If the air quality worsens, there are practical steps you can take to limit exposure while exercising. Because if the air quality is poorer, it is recommended to take certain actions that would limit your exposure to pollution while exercising. “The most effective way of protecting yourself from air pollution is by limiting your personal exposure,” says Frederic Garrandes, Scientific Manager from World Athletics who analyzes the data for Running for Clean Air. How to do that?
Run to improve the air
Every month, we meet at the National Stadium Surulere for a fitness drive. Need some extra motivation to stay active? Join our coaches for a 5km walk/run on January 18—all fitness levels are welcome! By participating, you’re not just getting the exercise your body needs; you’re also showing support for cleaner air in Lagos.
During the fitness drive, our project ambassadors will be there to talk about air quality and provide practical tips on how you can help reduce pollution in your community.
After all, the whole world needs to run on clean air—and so do you.