By Olanrewaju Agiri
Mathias Gotwen from Plateau State emerged the winner of the 12th Splash FM Ibadan City Marathon Race after returning with 2 hours, 35 minutes, and 24 seconds to claim the ₦1.2 million star prize in the men’s category, while Charity Agbofure won in the women’s category with a time of 3 hours, 00 minutes, and 07 seconds to earn herself ₦800,000.
The 42-kilometer road race, which was held at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan, on Sunday, was organised by West Midland Communications, owners of Splash and Lagelu FMs, with support from the Oyo State Government and other partners.
In his goodwill address, the founder of West Midland Communications, Oba Adebayo Akande, thanked God and stakeholders for making the marathon’s return a reality, while acknowledging the role of their technical partner on the project, the National Sports Commission, and the volunteers, doctors, nurses, and media, describing their passion for sports as inspiring and invaluable.
“To God be the glory, who in His infinite mercy has brought us together again for another marathon year. I thank Governor Seyi Makinde, whose uncommon love for sports remains a beacon of hope for generations. To the marathoners, your very presence here is a mark of victory. Whatever the outcome, you are our champions.”
Reacting after the event, the wife of the Chairman of West Midland Communications, Olori (Dr.) Onikepo Akande, commended the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for his support in ensuring sports remains a priority in the state while expressing her joy that the Ibadan marathon race returned after four years of rest.
“My joy knows no bounds that this event is being held again after a few years that it has been rested, and on this note I would like to appreciate Governor Seyi Makinde for his support and for ensuring that sports remains a priority in Oyo State,” said the former minister.
In her remarks, the Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Wasilat Adegoke, also commended the revival of the marathon and assured of the government’s continued investment in all sports, stressing that the race shows how sports can bring communities together and inspire the youth.
Speaking in the same vein, the General Manager of Operations, Splash FM, Mr. Tunde Olawuwo, lauded the participants, volunteers, and technical partners for making the 12th edition a successful one, stressing that the event is more than just a marathon but a tradition of excellence that has come to stay in Ibadan.
“We will continue to build on this legacy until the Ibadan City Marathon attains global recognition,” he said. He emphasized the importance of community involvement and encouraged more local businesses to support such initiatives. By fostering a spirit of collaboration, the marathon can not only elevate the city’s profile but also create lasting impacts on health and fitness among residents.
