By Abubakar Shuaibu. A
Lokoja came alive on Thursday as hundreds of athletes pounded through the city streets in the maiden Kogi Half Marathon — a sporting competition that blended youthful energy with a renewed sense of unity and pride.
The Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, praised the participants for what he described as a “celebration of endurance, resilience, and the human spirit.”
Over two hundred athletes from more than ten states took part in the race — a turnout many believe has placed Kogi State firmly on Nigeria’s national sporting map.
Governor Ododo congratulated the winners, describing their performance as a reflection of discipline and hard work. He encouraged those who fell short of podium positions not to be discouraged, assuring that future editions of the Marathon would present more opportunities for success.
He explained that the Kogi Half Marathon forms part of activities marking the second anniversary of his administration and reaffirmed that youth empowerment, sports development, and human capital will remain at the heart of his government’s strategy for progress.
“There is a clear link between sports, productivity, and the health of our young people,” he noted, acknowledging the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Monday Aridaojo Anyebe, for initiating the Marathon and demonstrating purposeful leadership.
Beyond the medals and prize presentations, the event sparked an atmosphere of excitement around the Muhammadu Buhari Civic Centre — where participants, officials, and spectators exchanged handshakes, laughter, and photographs, underscoring the social value of sports.
Hon. Anyebe described the Marathon as a testament to Governor Ododo’s visionary leadership and his belief that sports can drive talent discovery, healthy living, and economic growth. He hinted that the State is investing in infrastructure and athlete support systems designed to yield long-term benefits.
Winners Emerge Across Categories
Highlights of the ceremony included the presentation of prizes to outstanding athletes:
Male Indigene Category
1st — Mohammed Okehi
2nd — Oluwa Damilola Eniola
3rd — Omole
Female Indigene Category
1st — Elias Jacinta
2nd — Onimisi Sufiat
3rd — Ige Blessing
Male Non-Indigene Category
1st — Iliya Raymond (Plateau State)
2nd — Gilbert Kiprotich Korir (Kenya)
3rd — Guang James (Plateau State)
Female Non-Indigene Category
1st — Akusho Lydia (Plateau State)
2nd — Vivian Obadiah (Plateau State)
3rd — Agofure Charity (Delta State)
As the ceremony rounded up, many athletes described Lokoja as a friendly and scenic route, promising to return for future editions. With this maiden success, organizers say the Kogi Half Marathon has come to stay — and will only grow stronger in the years ahead.
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