Ibadan City Marathon Returns as Gotwen, Agbofure Win Big
By Adewale Owoade
The 12th Ibadan City Marathon has concluded with Mathias Gotwen and Charity Agbofure emerging as winners in the men’s and women’s 42.19km categories, respectively.
The marathon, which returned after a four-year hiatus, saw participants from various backgrounds come together to showcase their athletic prowess.
The marathon commenced at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan, and was organised by West Midland Communications, the parent company of Splash FM and Lagelu FM, with support from the Oyo State Government and various partners.
Gotwen, an origin of Plateau State, claimed victory in the men’s 42.19km category with a time of 2 hours, 35 minutes, and 24 seconds, earning a cash prize of N1.2 million.
While Agbofure, an origin of Delta State, finished the women’s race in 3 hours, 00 minutes, and 07 seconds, winning N800,000.
Both winners thanked the organiser for organising the event
In the men’s category, Friday Yohama secured second place with 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.
Also, in the 5km race, which 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), in 2023 general election, 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.
The highpoint of the event was the 76-year-old Enibukun Oyewole, a retired soldier, who participated in the 5km race, showcasing his passion for running.
Pa Oyewole stated further, that he will keep running as long as he has the strength.
The Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke, reaffirmed the government’s 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.
The founder of Splash FM’s wife, Olori Onikepo, said she is happy that this marathon is back, and appreciated Governor Seyi Makinde for his support and for ensuring that sports remain a priority in Oyo State.
Also, the General Manager of Splash FM, Mr.Tunde Olawuwo commended the participants, volunteers, and technical partners for their contributions to the success of the competition.
”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. (NAN)
OWO