Whether you’re planning a wedding in Lagos, a concert in Abuja, or a church crusade in Ibadan, one tool can save you from last-minute panic and embarrassing confusion, the event run sheet.

Yes, that simple piece of paper (or spreadsheet) can be the difference between a smooth, well-organised celebration and a stressful, scattered disaster.

What is a Run Sheet?

A run sheet is also called a rundown or program flow is basically your event’s timetable. Think of it as the Google Map of your event day. It tells you exactly:

• What happens
• When it happens
• Who is responsible for it

If you’ve ever attended a Nigerian event where things started two hours late or people kept asking “what’s next?” Congratulations, you’ve seen an event without a run sheet.

Why Every Nigerian Event Needs a Run Sheet

1. Keeps Everyone in Sync

From the MC to the DJ, ushers, photographers, and vendors, everyone knows exactly what’s coming next.

2. Reduces Event Day Stress

Instead of running around like a headless chicken, you can calmly check your run sheet and stay in control.

3. Kills “African Time”

Nigerian events have a bad rep for starting late. A run sheet won’t magically make guests punctual, but it will keep the program moving once things start.

4. Manages Emergencies Better

If something goes wrong (e.g., power cut, performer delay), you can quickly rearrange without messing up the entire event.

5. Makes You Look Professional

Sponsors, VIPs, and even guests will take you more seriously when they see your event is organised.

How to Create a Simple Nigerian Event Run Sheet

You don’t need expensive software even Excel, Google Sheets, or pen and paper will do. Your run sheet should have four main columns:

Pro Tips for Nigerian Events

• Add Buffer Time – Nigerian guests are rarely early. Add 15–30 minutes buffer before starting key activities.
• Share with Key People – MC, DJ, stage manager, performers, and coordinators should all get the run sheet before the event.
• Print Extras – Make at least 5–10 extra copies. Someone will misplace theirs.
• Stick to Time – It won’t be perfect, but try to keep activities within schedule.

Conclusion

From owambes in Lagos to corporate launches in Abuja, having a run sheet is one of the simplest ways to avoid chaos and keep your event organised.

Your guests may not consciously praise your run sheet but they will definitely notice when there’s none.

And if you want to make event planning in Nigeria even easier, you can create, manage, and share your event schedules directly on Shows.ng, the home for Nigerian events