Ekiti State Honors Marathon Winners with N15 Million in Prizes
Ekiti State Government recently celebrated the winners of the Ikogosi 17.5km marathon by distributing a total of N15 million in prizes, including special awards for indigenous athletes. This initiative is part of broader efforts to encourage local participation, promote sports, and empower the youth in the state.
The marathon, which started at Ilawe Ekiti and concluded at Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, was followed by an award ceremony held at the resort. The Race Consultant addressed participants and attendees, highlighting the significance of the event.
Male Category Winners
In the male category, Iliya Raymond Gyang emerged as the winner, completing the race in 57.33 minutes and receiving N2 million. Francis James, who came in second with a time of 57.44 minutes, was awarded N1.5 million. Sadjo Ismael, finishing third in 59.16 minutes, received N1 million.
Female Category Winners
The female category saw Blessing Shamboa take first place with a time of 68 minutes, earning N2 million. Akusho Lydia Thomas, who finished second in 70.12 minutes, was awarded N1.5 million, while Nvou Gyang Tanko, third in 71.15 minutes, took home N1 million.
Indigenous Athletes Recognized
In addition to the main categories, the state government also recognized indigenous athletes, awarding N1.5 million, N1 million, and N500,000 to the first, second, and third-place winners, respectively.
Among male indigenous runners, Tunde Segun from Otun Ekiti came first, Sunday Ijoko from Ijero Ekiti came second, and Agbalaya Alayande from Ado Ekiti came third. For the female category, Ona Ara Popoola from Ilawe Ekiti won first, Imisioluwa Ajayi from Igbemo Ekiti came second, and Maria Ojanbati from Omuo Ekiti came third.
Insights from the Race Consultant
Femi Abegunde, the Race Consultant and Technical Committee Lead of the Ikogosi Marathon 2025, highlighted the growth of the event since its maiden edition in 2019. He noted that nearly 6,000 runners registered for the current edition, with over 3,500 participants actually taking part in the race.
Abegunde praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji for continuing the marathon, emphasizing the importance of sports in fostering community spirit and empowering the youth. He stated:
“Sport is a very strong tool to galvanise the youth. It’s a very strong tool to get youth to go away from vices and evil things. It is a very strong tool for empowerment.”
He also highlighted the economic impact of the event, noting that it has created opportunities for various sectors, from media personnel to carpenters, vendors, and food sellers.
Future Goals and Legacy
Abegunde mentioned that lessons learned from this edition will be used to improve future marathons, with the long-term goal of making the event competitive on a global scale. He also commended the organizers for creating a category to support local runners, which helps encourage participation and discover new talent in Ekiti.
Historical Context
Oba Ajibade Alabi, a former Chairman of the Ekiti Council of Traditional Rulers and the Alawe of Ilawe Ekiti, praised the Oyebanji administration for continuing the Ikogosi Marathon, which was initiated by former governor Kayode Fayemi in 2019. That year’s event was a 10km marathon starting from Aramoko Ekiti and ending at Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort.
Broader Impact
Earlier this year, Abegunde emphasized the multifaceted benefits of the marathon, stating that it is more than just a sporting event. He explained:
“The Ikogosi Marathon is more than a sporting event; it is a platform for tourism, health, and community development. The race will promote Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort as a global tourist attraction, boost local businesses through increased patronage, and encourage fitness and healthy living across Nigeria.”
Conclusion
The Ikogosi Marathon continues to grow in significance, not only as a sporting event but also as a catalyst for tourism, health, and economic development in Ekiti State. With continued support and improvements, the event is poised to become a major regional and international attraction.