The 12th edition of the Ibadan City Marathon witnessed thrilling competition on Sunday, with Mathias Gotwen and Charity Agbofure emerging champions in the 42.19km men’s and women’s categories respectively.
The marathon, organised by West Midlands Communications, owners of Splash FM and Lagelu FM, attracted top runners from across the country.
Gotwen clinched victory in the men’s 42.19km race with a finishing time of 2:35:24, narrowly beating Friday Yohanna, who finished second in 2:35:31.
In the women’s category, Agbofure dominated with an impressive time of 3:00:02, securing first place ahead of Elizabeth Nuhu Power, who finished in 3:08:43.
The winners received cash prizes, with Gotwen earning ₦1.2 million, Agbofure ₦800,000, while Yohanna and Power took home ₦500,000 and ₦400,000 respectively.
In their remarks, both winners, from Plateau and Delta states respectively, expressed joy at their victories. Gotwen thanked his friends, including Agbofure, for encouraging and supporting him to participate, while Agbofure said her triumph was the result of two months of intense preparation.
The Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mrs Wasilat Adegoke, commended the organisers, participants, and volunteers, while appreciating Governor Seyi Makinde for his support and commitment as the chief sponsor.
Olori Onikepo Akande, wife of the proprietor and a former Minister of Industry, described the large turnout as encouraging and assured that the event would continue to hold annually.
Also speaking, Mr Tunde Olawuwo, General Manager (Operations) of Splash FM, expressed delight at the return of the “much-cherished” race after a five-year break.
“We are happy that the race has returned. It is about projecting the city of Ibadan, which is why the name changed in 2016 from Splash FM Integrity Marathon to Ibadan City Marathon, in line with the tradition of global marathons like the London City Marathon,” he explained.
The event also featured a 5km race, where Adebiyi Fathia, Ojo Anuoluwa, and Afigbo Esther finished first, second, and third in the women’s category. In the men’s division, Abubakar Ayomide clinched first place, followed by Alabi Olusegun and rights activist Omoyele Sowore, who came second and third.
