Okpekpe Race Organisers Honour Oshiomhole At 74th Birthday

Organisers of the Okpekpe International 10km Road Race have extended warm congratulations to Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole, former two-term Governor of Edo State, ex-National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and current Senator representing Edo North, as he celebrated his 74th birthday on Good Friday.

Oshiomhole is widely credited with making the historic race possible through the construction of the road in the Imiegba area, which significantly improved access to Okpekpe town. This vital infrastructure enabled the race, now Nigeria’s first internationally certified road running event, to take place.

Since its inauguration in 2013, the Okpekpe race has evolved into a significant sporting fixture. In 2015, it became the first road race in Nigeria to have its course measured and certified by World Athletics, and subsequently the first in West Africa to achieve World Athletics Label status. This esteemed status confirms that the race adheres to rigorous international standards for organisation, safety, and course accuracy, ensuring global recognition for performances, rankings, and records.

Mike Adoga Itemuagbor, the race promoter and originator, commended Oshiomhole’s foresight and dedication. ‘Comrade Oshiomhole is more than a leader; he is a race himself. He literally gave us the Okpekpe race, and through it, Nigeria entered the global road-running map. His legacy deserves to be celebrated not only in politics but in athletics,’ Itemuagbor stated.

Beyond his pioneering role, Oshiomhole has also actively participated as a runner in several editions of the race, embodying its spirit and motivating others. His consistent involvement since 2013, particularly from 2015 when the race achieved label status, highlights his commitment to sports development and community empowerment.

The Okpekpe International 10km Road Race has since inspired numerous other certified road races across Nigeria, solidifying Oshiomhole’s position as a trailblazer in athletics. As he marks his 74th year, organisers believe it is fitting to honour him not merely as a statesman, but as the individual who conceived, built, and inspired a race that continues to elevate Nigeria on the global stage.