The Asagba of Asaba, Obi Professor Epiphany Azinge, has announced the maiden edition of the Asaba International Road Race, a 10-kilometer event scheduled to take place on October 5, 2025. The traditional ruler made the announcement during a press briefing at his palace in Asaba, highlighting the event’s potential to attract long-distance runners from within and outside Nigeria.
According to the Asagba, the international road race aims to showcase Asaba as the capital city of Delta State and one of the fastest-growing metropolises in Nigeria and Africa. The event is expected to draw sports enthusiasts from across the country and international participants, thereby boosting economic activities in the kingdom and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Asaba people.
The monarch emphasized that the event is in support of the Delta State government’s efforts to promote sports development. He assured that all participants would be well catered for, underscoring the kingdom’s commitment to hosting a successful event.
Chairman of the Asaba Sports Promotion Committee, Rtd. Wing Commander Peter Iweze, commended the royal father for his love and support for sports development. He expressed the committee’s readiness to execute the tasks assigned to them, highlighting the potential of the road race to attract seasoned long-distance runners to Asaba and establish the city as a sporting hub. Rtd Wing Commander Iweze also noted that the event would have a positive impact on the local economy.
Consultant for the Asaba International Road Race, Mr. Moses Nwanze, outlined the event’s activities, including registration and accreditation of participants, fanfare, display of traditional clothing and artifacts. The 10-kilometer road race would commence from the Stephen Keshi Stadium or St. Patrick’s College to Anwai road, summit road, Mariam Babangida through Okpanam road, and conclude at the Cenotaph. Mr. Nwanze highlighted that cash prizes would be awarded to both male and female athletes from Asaba, other parts of Nigeria, and international athletes, with registration being free of charge.
The Asaba International Road Race coincides with the first anniversary of the 14th Asagba of Asaba’s ascension to the throne. The event features a prize money of thirty-four million naira, with both local and foreign athletes expected to compete for the coveted prize.
