RismadarVoice Reporters
November 1, 2026
Organisers of the Ikogosi Marathon Initiative have announced plans to develop 10 promising athletes from Ekiti State and support their participation in international athletics competitions.
The initiative’s organiser, Makinde Araoye, disclosed the plan during the closing ceremony of the 2026 edition of the 17.5-kilometre road race, held on Saturday at the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort.
Araoye said the selected athletes would receive financial rewards, career development support and opportunities to compete internationally as part of efforts to nurture sporting talent in the state.
He called on the Ekiti State Government, particularly the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, to support the athletes through sustained investment and training opportunities.
Established in 2014, the initiative seeks to promote athletics, discover young talent and strengthen tourism and economic activities in Ekiti State.
The race began in Ilawe Ekiti and ended at the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, attracting participants from across Nigeria and other countries.
According to Araoye, approximately 14,000 people registered for this year’s competition, including athletes from Kenya, Ethiopia and 28 Nigerian states.
In the elite men’s category, Gyang James of Plateau State emerged victorious after completing the race in approximately 57 minutes, earning ₦2.5 million.
His brother, Francis James, finished second in approximately 58 minutes, receiving ₦2 million, while Rochas Sunday placed third in approximately 59 minutes and received ₦1 million.
Teyei Davou won the elite women’s category, followed by Tanko Nvou and Vivian Obadiah.
In the Ekiti indigenous men’s category, Adeyemi Tunde claimed first place and ₦2 million, while Abiodun Adetiba finished second with ₦1.5 million. Sunday Emmanuel placed third, earning ₦1 million.
Arinde Miracle won the indigenous women’s category, followed by Bako Gift and Ademisoye Adesewa.
Araoye expressed optimism that the 2027 edition would attract greater international participation and provide additional opportunities for Nigerian long-distance runners.
He explained that the initiative had largely relied on private funding and appealed to corporate organisations operating in Ekiti to support its expansion.
The organiser also commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for supporting an environment conducive to sporting activities.
Among the dignitaries present were former Ekiti governor Segun Oni, former presidential aide Babafemi Ojudu, Ekiti State House of Assembly Speaker Adeoye Aribasoye and National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism Director-General Abisoye Fagade.
Araoye maintained that developing local athletes would help create opportunities for young people while strengthening Ekiti State’s profile as a destination for sports and tourism.
