Ethiopians Dominate 2026 Okpekpe Road Race As Stakeholders Praise Stringent Security Measures

Posted : 02 June 2026

Ethiopian long-distance runners showcased absolute dominance at the 11th edition of the Okpekpe International 10km Road Race in Edo State. The highly competitive event concluded over the weekend with stellar athletic displays. It also highlighted a significant victory for local and regional security planning.

Lema Alemu Mamo secured the elite men’s title by crossing the finish line in a blistering 29 minutes and 37 seconds. He narrowly defeated his compatriot, Arage Getehn, who clocked 29 minutes and 39 seconds to secure second place. Kenyan runner Maxon Kipngetich placed third with a time of 29 minutes and 58 seconds. The elite winners in both categories walked away with a grand prize of $15,000 each.

The women’s elite division saw another masterclass from Ethiopia as Silnat Pitwe claimed gold in 34 minutes and 18 seconds. Mahait Kasahwu completed the Ethiopian clean sweep by finishing second in 34 minutes and 19 seconds. Fridah Ndinda of Kenya crossed the line in 34 minutes and 50 seconds to take third place.

Beyond the international athletic success, the gold-label event earned immense praise for its safety measures. Organisers deployed advanced surveillance technology, including drones, alongside heavily increased security forces. The extensive deployment successfully countered criminal threats and kidnapping concerns in the Edo North senatorial district. The secure layout allowed both elite athletes and high-profile dignitaries to participate in a peaceful atmosphere.

Security expert Peter Dunia, managing director of Oceanwaves Nigeria, described the hitch-free race as a major victory for collective action. He noted that public skepticism vanished once participants observed the meticulous emergency planning. Dunia stated that the tranquil outcome proves Nigeria can defeat domestic insecurity when private stakeholders collaborate effectively with state governments.

Dunia also demonstrated corporate social responsibility by significantly boosting the prize packages for indigenous Nigerian finishers. He presented N3 million, N2 million, and N1 million to the top three local male and female athletes respectively. Plateau State runner Raymond Iliya Gyang successfully retained his Nigerian division crown by finishing in 30 minutes and 29 seconds. Patience Dalyop secured the top local prize in the women's category with a time of 36 minutes and 42 seconds.

The event featured a lively VIP race segment. Former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole completed the course in 1 hour, 17 minutes, and 57 seconds. He finished just ahead of the National Institute for Sports Director General, Philip Shaibu, who clocked 1 hour and 18 minutes. Organisers have already initiated strategic plans for a larger edition next year.

Ethiopians Dominate 2026 Okpekpe Road Race As Stakeholders Praise Stringent Security Measures

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