Mathias Gotwen and Charity Agbofure have won the men’s and women’s categories of the 42.19km race of the 12th edition of the Splash FM Ibadan City Marathon on Sunday.
Gotwen returned home in the men’s category at a time of 2 hours, 35 minutes, and 24 seconds, earning a cash prize of N1.2 million, while Agbofure finished the women’s race in 3 hours, 00 minutes, and 07 seconds, winning N800,000 in the women’s category.
In the men’s category, Friday Yohama came second at a time of 2:35:31, receiving N500,000, while Iliya Dang finished third in 2:37:32, taking home N300,000.
Nyago Boyi and Dang Ahmadi finished fourth and fifth, respectively, earning N200,000 and N150,000.
In the women’s 42.19km category, Elizabeth Nuhu finished second in 3:08:43, winning N400,000, while Erinle Olude Fadekemi placed third in 3:18:42, pocketing N200,000.
The 42.19km race was equally competitive. In the men’s division, Abubakar Ayomide finished first in 37:49:09, followed closely by Alabi Olusegun with a time of 37:56:40.
Notably, a human rights activist and presidential candidate of African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, made a special appearance, finishing third in 38:25:07, followed by Ajayi Muritala (40:37:50) and Enoch Chukwu (43:54:00).
Speaking after the race, Sowore remarked, “Running alongside young Nigerians here in Ibadan is proof that sports is a unifier. This marathon represents the resilience of our people, and I’m glad to be part of it.”
In the women’s 5km race, Adebayo Fathia emerged victorious in 39:22:07, followed by Ojo Anuoluwa (40:19:07) and Afigbo Esther (41:06:08). Mary Joy Ecmefu and Adeyeri Omololade rounded out the top five.
A standout moment of the day was the participation of 76-year-old Enibukun Oyewole, a retired soldier who joined the 5km race.
He shared, “It is a passion. I have been running since 1973, and I will keep running as long as I have the strength.”
In her remark, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke Adefemi, praised the revival of the marathon, affirming the government’s ongoing commitment to grassroots sports.
“This race shows how sports can bring communities together and inspire our youth. The Makinde-led administration remains dedicated to expanding opportunities for young athletes,” she stated.
In an interview, wife of the founder of Splash FM, Olori Onikepo Akande expressed gratitude for the marathon’s return after years of suspension, saying, “I am happy that this marathon is back. We appreciate Governor Seyi Makinde for his support and for ensuring that sports remain a priority in Oyo State.”
While speaking with newsmen, the General Manager of Splash FM, Mr. Tunde Olawuwo, commended the participants, volunteers, and technical partners for their contributions to the success of the 12th edition.
“This is more than a marathon; it is a tradition of excellence. We will continue to build on this legacy until the Ibadan City Marathon attains global recognition,” he affirmed.
Earlier, in his goodwill address, Oba Adebayo Akande, founder of West Midland Communications, expressed gratitude to God and stakeholders for making the marathon’s return possible.
“To God be the glory who in His infinite mercy has brought us together again for another marathon year. I thank Governor Seyi Makinde, whose uncommon love for sports remains a beacon of hope for generations.
“To the marathoners, your very presence here is a mark of victory. Whatever the outcome, you are our champions,” he concluded.
READ ALSO FROM SPORTING TRIBUNE
