Mathias Gotwen and Charity Agbofure have claimed the star prizes of the 12th Splash FM Ibadan City Marathon Race.
This year’s edition marked the return of the thrilling 42.19km marathon race after a four-year break.
While Gotwen clinched the men’s category within a timeframe of 2 hours, 35 minutes, 24 seconds with a cash prize of ₦1.2 million, Agbofure finished the women’s category in 3 hours, 00 minutes, 07 seconds to earn herself ₦800,000.
The marathon race, which was held at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan on Sunday, was organised by West Midland Communications, owners of Splash and Lagelu FMs, with support from Oyo State Government and other partners.
In the men’s category, Friday Yohama came second in 2:35:31, earning ₦500,000, while Iliya Dang placed third in 2:37:32 to take home ₦300,000. Nyago Boyi and Dang Ahmadi finished fourth and fifth, with prizes of ₦200,000 and ₦150,000 respectively.
In the women’s category, Elizabeth Nuhu finished second in 3:08:43, winning ₦400,000, and Erinle Olude Fadekemi came third in 3:18:42, pocketing ₦200,000.
Addressing the newsmen, the Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Wasilat Adegoke, commended the revival of the marathon and assured of government’s continued investment in grassroots sports.
“This race shows how sports can bring communities together and inspire our youth. The Makinde-led administration remains committed to expanding opportunities for young athletes,” she said.
Also speaking, wife of the Chairman, West Midland Communications, Olori (Dr.) Onikepo Akande, expressed gratitude that the marathon was being held again after years of suspension.
“I am happy that this marathon is back. We appreciate Governor Seyi Makinde for his support and for ensuring that sports remains a priority in Oyo State,” she said.
The General Manager Operations, Splash FM, Mr. Tunde Olawuwo, lauded the participants, volunteers, and technical partners for making the 12th edition a success.
“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 said.
Earlier in his goodwill address, the founder of West Midland Communications, Oba Adebayo Akande, thanked God and stakeholders for making the marathon’s return a reality.
“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 further acknowledged the role of the National Sports Commission, volunteers, doctors, nurses, and physios, describing their passion for sports as “inspiring and invaluable.”
