Kogi Half Marathon: Gov Ododo Hails Athletes as Winner Bags ₦1 Million »

Lokoja came alive on Thursday as Kogi State successfully hosted its maiden Half Marathon, drawing over 200 athletes from more than ten states of the federation and beyond, in what stakeholders have described as a strong statement of the state’s growing presence on Nigeria’s sporting map.

Our correspondent, who monitored activities from the early morning flag-off through to the prize presentation ceremony, reports that the 21-kilometre race tested endurance, discipline and resilience, while also energising economic and social activities across the state capital.

Speaking at the prize presentation ceremony held at the Muhammadu Buhari Civic Centre, Lokoja, the Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, commended the athletes for their professionalism and competitive spirit. The governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, described the Half Marathon as more than a sporting contest.

“This marathon is a celebration of endurance, unity and the strength of the human spirit. The turnout and quality of athletes we witnessed today clearly show that Kogi State is ready to take its rightful place in national and international sports engagements,” he said.

Represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, Governor Ododo noted that the marathon formed part of activities marking the second anniversary of his administration, reaffirming his commitment to youth empowerment, sports development and human capital growth as core pillars of sustainable development in the state.
He congratulated athletes who finished in prize-winning positions and encouraged those who did not, assuring them that future editions of the marathon would provide broader opportunities. According to him, the event has promoted unity among states, boosted tourism and stimulated economic activities within Lokoja.

The governor also commended the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Monday Aridaojo Anyebe, for initiating the marathon, describing it as a product of vision, teamwork and purposeful leadership.

Earlier in his address, Hon. Anyebe said the Kogi Half Marathon was a practical demonstration of Governor Ododo’s belief in sports as a tool for youth empowerment, talent discovery and economic development.

“Beyond competition, this marathon is about creating opportunities. Sports can lift young people off the streets, provide livelihoods and promote healthy living. What we are witnessing today is just the beginning. With sustained investment, Kogi will become a major hub for athletics in Nigeria,” the commissioner said.

He added that the ministry would continue to strengthen sports infrastructure and athlete welfare, noting that the successful hosting of the maiden edition has laid a solid foundation for future races that would attract more international participation.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of prizes to winners across various categories by the Deputy Governor. The overall winner of the Half Marathon, Iliya Raymond from Plateau State, who competed in the male non-indigene category, went home with the star prize of ₦1 million.

Speaking after receiving his cheque, Raymond expressed gratitude to the Kogi State Government for the organisation and generous reward.

“This is one of the best-organised races I have competed in. Winning ₦1 million is a huge motivation, and I commend the Kogi State Government for investing seriously in sports,” he said.

Second-place finisher, Gilbert Kiprotich Korir from Kenya, also praised the event, describing the course as challenging but well coordinated, while third-place winner, Guang James from Plateau State, said the marathon would encourage more athletes to look towards Kogi in future competitions.

In the female non-indigene category, Akusho Lydia from Plateau State emerged winner. She described the race as “tough but fulfilling,” thanking the organisers for creating a level playing field for both male and female athletes.

In the indigene categories, Mohammed Okehi topped the male race, followed by Oluwa Damilola Eniola and Omole, while Elias Jacinta clinched first position in the female category, with Onimisi Sufiat and Ige Blessing finishing second and third respectively.

Many participants and spectators agreed that the successful hosting of the maiden Kogi Half Marathon has set a new benchmark for sports events in the state, with expectations already high for an even bigger and more competitive outing in subsequent editions.