Okpekpe ready for race as elite runners storm Edo hills

Posted : 27 May 2026

Nigeria will once again take centre stage in global athletics this weekend as the 11th edition of the Okpekpe International 10km Road Race holds on Saturday, May 30, in Edo State.

The famous hills and winding roads of Okpekpe in Etsako East Local Government Area are expected to host some of the world’s leading road runners in a race that has continued to strengthen its reputation as one of Africa’s biggest athletics events.

Organisers have declared full readiness for the competition, which is the only World Athletics Gold Label road race scheduled globally for May 30.

The race, organised by Pamodzi Sports Marketing, remains a landmark event in African athletics, having become the first road race in West Africa to secure World Athletics label recognition in 2015 before rising steadily to gold label status.

Race Director Zak Amodu expressed confidence in the preparations already put in place, noting that the race has consistently maintained international standards over the years.

According to him, the growth of the competition from bronze label recognition to gold label status reflects the credibility and organisational quality the event has built within the global athletics community.

Amodu added that this year’s edition is expected to further reinforce Nigeria’s growing reputation as a capable host of world-class sporting events.

Top government officials and sports administrators are expected at the event, with Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo billed to officially flag off the race alongside President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, Tonobok Okowa, and former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole.

Global attention will also be on the race as millions of viewers are expected to watch the competition live on AIT and M4STV.

On the athletes’ list, Ethiopian youngster Lemi Teshome is attracting major attention in the men’s category after his outstanding 27:17 performance in Lille, France, which currently ranks him among the fastest road runners in the world this year.

Kenya’s Fridah Ndinda will lead the women’s international field in what is expected to be another highly competitive contest.

Nigeria’s challenge will be spearheaded by defending champion James Musa and former winner Ismael Sadjo, both of whom are aiming to dominate the home field.

In the women’s event, Patience Daylop Mwavwang will be chasing a third consecutive title after triumphing in the 2023 and 2024 editions, while experienced runner Deborah Pam Badung eyes a return to winning ways after her last victory in 2019.

The course records remain untouched, with Kenya’s Daniel Simiu Ebenyo holding the men’s mark of 28:28, while Kazakhstan’s Caroline Chepkoech Kipkirui retains the women’s record at 32:38.

Beyond the competition itself, the Okpekpe race has continued to contribute to the development of the host community through increased tourism, improved infrastructure, and economic activities generated around the annual event.

As anticipation builds ahead of Saturday’s showdown, another thrilling chapter is expected in Okpekpe’s growing legacy as one of Africa’s premier road races.

The 11th edition of the Okpekpe International 10km Road Race is fully prepared to deliver world-class athletic action in Edo State. With elite global stars and determined home contenders set to challenge the course records, the event promises to deliver significant sporting and community milestones. Ultimately, this weekend's race will reaffirm Nigeria's prominent position on the international road running calendar.

Okpekpe ready for race as elite runners storm Edo hills

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