James Brothers Dominate Ikogosi Marathon as Gyang Claims Title

Posted : 01 November 2026

Plateau State brothers, Gyang James and Francis James, delivered an impressive performance at the fourth Ikogosi Marathon, finishing first and second in the men's elite category.

Gyang emerged champion after completing the 17.5-kilometre race in 57 minutes, while Francis followed in 58 minutes. Rochas Sunday finished third in 59 minutes.

In the women's elite category, Teyei Davou claimed the top position, with Tanko Nvou and Vivian Obadiah finishing second and third, respectively.

The race, which started at Ilawe-Ekiti and ended at the iconic Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, attracted participants from 28 states and other African countries.

Organiser of the Ikogosi Marathon Initiative, Makinde Araoye, said the competition recorded approximately 14,000 registrations, reflecting its growing popularity among local and international athletes.

Araoye explained that the initiative was established to promote athletics, discover emerging talents and strengthen Ekiti State's profile as a destination for sports and tourism.

He also disclosed plans to sponsor outstanding Ekiti athletes to international competitions as part of efforts to improve their exposure and competitive experience.

According to him, the sponsorship initiative will complement the cash prizes and gift items for the top 10 Ekiti athletes, extending opportunities beyond the immediate rewards of the competition.

“Besides the cash prizes and gift items for the top 10 athletes from Ekiti State, the organisers will also sponsor these athletes to international competitions, where they can compete, gain valuable experience and improve their performances.

“This is part of our efforts to expose Ekiti athletes to the international stage and give them opportunities to showcase their talents,” Araoye said.

In the elite category, the first-, second- and third-place finishers received ₦2.5 million, ₦2 million and ₦1 million, respectively, while special prizes were presented to outstanding Ekiti indigenes.

Gyang described his victory as the reward for determination and improved preparation, having finished fourth at the previous edition.

He said the marathon provided an important platform for Nigerian athletes to pursue their ambitions and gain valuable exposure.

In the men's Ekiti indigene category, Adeyemi Tunde emerged winner ahead of Adetiba Abiodun and Sunday Emmanuel.

Arinde Miracle claimed the women's indigene title, while Bako Gift and Ademisoye Adesewa finished second and third, respectively.

The event attracted prominent dignitaries, including former Ekiti Governor, Chief Segun Oni; former presidential aide, Senator Babafemi Ojudu; Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye; Director-General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism, Dr Abisoye Fagade; and Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Student Engagement, Sunday Asefon.

The latest edition further strengthened the marathon's ambition to achieve international recognition, while using athletics to promote tourism, youth development and economic opportunities in Ekiti State.

James Brothers Dominate Ikogosi Marathon as Gyang Claims Title

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