Why Okpekpe 10km Road Race Is The Best In The World – Oshiomhole

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, a two-time governor of Edo State and the current senator representing Edo North, has enthusiastically announced his preparations for the 2026 edition of the Okpekpe International 10km Road Race, which is scheduled to take place in May.

In a widely shared video, Oshiomhole proudly donned his white Okpekpe t-shirt while walking in training for the race. He showcased his progress by displaying data on his phone, revealing that he had covered 8.92 kilometres in 85 minutes, burning 492 calories along the way.

“Preparing for the Okpekpe race this May 2026. It’s vital to begin training early; events don’t just happen overnight. To complete 10 kilometres in a predominantly hilly landscape with valleys and fresh air is a unique challenge. We are eagerly anticipating this year’s Okpekpe race day, which is why I proudly wear my Okpekpe t-shirt,” he remarked.

Oshiomhole hailed the race as unmatched, not only because it was the first in West Africa to earn a World Athletics Label but also due to its stunning natural surroundings.

“It is the best road race in the world. I hesitate to confine it to Africa, as there is no other location globally that offers such breathtaking terrain, beautiful hills, and valleys, all set amidst lush greenery and a community free from pollution. If one seeks genuine African hospitality, the locals are unparalleled,” he added.

Experts concur that the unique terrain of Okpekpe provides athletes with a significant advantage. Running in a hilly, verdant environment devoid of air pollution enhances cardiovascular conditioning, strengthens muscles, improves lung capacity, and fosters mental rejuvenation.

The interplay of elevation changes, pristine air, and natural surroundings yields both physiological and psychological benefits, enhancing performance and aiding recovery.

Norrie Williamson, a World Athletics certified course measurer from South Africa and a technical delegate for the race on multiple occasions, affirmed its distinctiveness.

“The Okpekpe race terrain is among the most unique in the world. The hills and valleys offer a genuine test for athletes, while the clean air and natural environment create conditions that are rarely found in road running.”

This race holds a significant place in African athletics history. In 2015, it became the first road running event in West Africa to receive a World Athletics Label, just eight years after the governing body began certifying road races globally.

A Label race is internationally acknowledged for its quality and compliance, signifying adherence to rigorous international standards for competition, organisation, safety, and athlete participation. Performances in Label races contribute to official World Rankings in marathon and road running categories, providing athletes from Nigeria and across Africa with a platform to compete at the highest level.

For Oshiomhole, however, the Okpekpe race transcends mere sport; it is a celebration of community, culture, and the pristine environment of Okpekpe. “No other place in the world possesses such stunning terrain,” he emphasised, highlighting the hills, valleys, lush greenery, and the warm hospitality of the local populace.