Global attention turns to Okpekpe for landmark gold label showpiece

By Maxwell Kumoye

 

The quiet hills of Okpekpe in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State are once again preparing for a moment on the global sporting stage as the 11th edition of the Okpekpe International 10km Road Race takes place on Saturday, May 30.

With the race officially listed by World Athletics as the next major global road race event, attention has shifted to Nigeria for what promises to be one of the most significant athletics competitions on the international calendar this weekend.

Organised by Pamodzi Sports Marketing, the Okpekpe race stands out as the only World Athletics Gold Label road race scheduled anywhere in the world on May 30, underlining its growing prestige within global athletics.

The race is one of just 41 Gold Label road races approved worldwide for 2026 and remains the first road race in West Africa to earn label recognition from World Athletics, a milestone first achieved in 2015.

Race Director Zak Amodu said organisers have completed preparations for another successful outing, expressing confidence in Nigeria’s ability to continue delivering events that meet international standards.

According to him, the race’s rise from bronze label status in 2015 to its current gold label recognition represents a major endorsement from World Athletics and reflects years of consistent organisational excellence.

The event is expected to attract major dignitaries, with Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo set to officially flag off the race alongside Tonobok Okowa and Adams Oshiomhole.

Millions of viewers across the world are also expected to follow the race live through broadcasts on AIT and M4STV.

On the track, the competition is expected to deliver elite performances from some of the world’s top road runners.

Nineteen-year-old Ethiopian sensation Lemi Teshome headlines the men’s international field after emerging as the 11th fastest man over 10km this year following his impressive 27:17 finish in Lille, France last month.

In the women’s race, Kenyan star Fridah Ndinda leads a strong international lineup expected to challenge for honours.

Nigerian athletes are also expected to provide fierce competition, with defending champion James Musa returning to defend his title while 2023 winner Ismael Sadjo is also confirmed for the race.

The women’s category could produce another historic moment as Patience Daylop Mwavwang targets a third consecutive Okpekpe title following victories in 2023 and 2024.

Multiple-time winner Deborah Pam Badung will also be aiming for a return to the top after last winning the race in 2019.

The race’s course records remain held by Kenya’s Daniel Simiu Ebenyo, who ran 28:28 in the men’s event, and Kazakhstan’s Caroline Chepkoech Kipkirui, whose 32:38 remains the women’s benchmark.

Beyond athletics, the Okpekpe race has continued to transform the host community by attracting infrastructure development, stimulating local businesses, and inspiring young Nigerian athletes.

As runners prepare to tackle the scenic hills and winding roads of Okpekpe once more, the event is again expected to showcase not only world-class competition but also Nigeria’s growing reputation for hosting international sporting events at the highest level.