At least, 700 registered athletes across the nation are set to compete in the Splash FM Ibadan City Marathon race after a four-year break.
The 12th Splash FM Ibadan City Marathon is scheduled to kick off by 7am at Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, (formerly Liberty Stadium), with the expected routes to include Stadium,-Iyaganku-Alesinloye-Eleyele-Sango-Ojoo-Iwo road, Gate- Bere-Oja oba-Challenge-Liberty stadium.
The General Manager of Operations, Splash FM, Mr. Tunde Olawuwo, stated this during a press conference held at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium (formerly Liberty Stadium), Ibadan, the capital city of Oyo state on Wednesday.
“Even in the break, the marathon’s heartbeat never stopped; it only stayed silent, waiting for the right moment to return. That moment is now, and we are elevating it in every sense of the word. This isn’t just a race; it’s a homecoming,” he declared.
Mr. Olawuwo stated that the event, which cost about ₦30 million, stated that the overall winner will receive the sum of ₦1.2 million and ₦800,000 for the first female finisher.
He further said that medals will be awarded to the top 20 runners, while every participant who completes the 42km course will receive a certificate.
“When we reward excellence, we inspire more excellence. We want our athletes to know their grit, sweat, and discipline matter. This marathon belongs to Ibadan, and its success will be our shared victory. Beyond the physical strength, the programme is a symbol of Ibadan resilience and a way of showcasing our city,” he added.
Speaking further at the event, Oyo State’s Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Miss. Wasilat Adegoke, revealed that the Engr Seyi Makinde-led administration was the first to officially identify and sponsor the marathon race.
“Since the marathon’s inception in 2008, no administration before ours has been as committed to this event as we are. This is not coincidence; it is leadership that believes in the power of sports to transform lives.”
She added that the event aligns with Governor Seyi Makinde’s vision of grassroots sports development, youth empowerment, and tourism growth while pledging the continuous support of the state government.
The Zonal Coordinator, National Sports Council, Mrs Evelyn Fabunmi, further commended the collaboration between Splash FM and the Oyo State Government while urging residents of Ibadan to come out and cheer and encourage the athletes.
Packaged by Dare Raji
