By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Philip Shaibu, has successfully completed the 2026 Okpekpe International 10km Road Race, retaining his previous performance mark with a finishing time of 1 hour, 18 minutes.
Shaibu crossed the finish line alongside former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Adams Oshiomhole, who finished slightly ahead in 1 hour, 17 minutes and 57 seconds.
The VIP race, which experienced a brief delay due to technical reasons, commenced at 10:05 a.m., shortly after the elite athletes had started their competition at 9:00 a.m.
For Shaibu, the race was more than a personal achievement. The former deputy governor entered the event after just a week of preparation. Less than 24 hours before the race, he completed a 5-kilometre training session at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.
Speaking after the race, Shaibu commended the organisers for consistently delivering one of Nigeria’s most successful international sporting events.
He noted that beyond athletics, the race continues to drive tourism, business opportunities and economic activities across Edo North and the wider Edo State community.
He also praised government support and the commitment of sponsors who have sustained the competition over the years while acknowledging the active involvement of NIS personnel throughout the event.
“Our medical team, researchers, media personnel and other staff members, including the South-South Zonal Coordinator of the Institute, were fully involved and provided support throughout the race,” Shaibu said.
The 2026 edition once again showcased East Africa’s dominance in long-distance running. Ethiopia’s Mamo Lama emerged overall winner of the men’s elite race in 29 minutes, 37 seconds to claim the $15,000 top prize. Fellow Ethiopian Aroge Getehn finished second in 29:39, while Kenya’s Maxon Kyngetich placed third in 29:58.
In the women’s elite category, Ethiopia’s Silnat Pitwe won in 34:18, narrowly edging compatriot Mahait Kasahiou, who finished in 34:19. Kenya’s Friday Ndinda secured third place in 34:50.
Nigeria’s elite men’s category was dominated by Plateau State athletes, with Raymond Ilya Gyang taking first place in 30:29, ahead of Boyi James in 30:40 and Sunday Rotshak in 30:44.
The women’s national title went to Patient Daylop, who clocked 36:42. Abuso Rose Thomas finished second in 36:51, while Vivian Nenyitwe claimed third place in 37:42.
Adding to the excitement, Chairman of Oceawave Group, Peter Dunia, announced additional cash rewards for the top Nigerian finishers, with winners in both the men’s and women’s categories receiving ₦3 million, ₦2 million and ₦1 million for first, second and third places respectively.
Recognised as the first World Athletics-certified road race in West Africa, the Okpekpe International 10km Road Race continues to grow in prestige, serving as a major platform for athletics development, tourism promotion and economic growth in Edo State.
