Pamodzi Sports Marketing, the organizer of the historic Okpekpe International 10km Road Race, has extended its congratulations to Nilayo Sports Management, Access Bank, and the Lagos State Government for successfully hosting the 10th edition of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon. Zack Amodu, the director of the Okpekpe International 10km Road Race, expressed excitement over the unwavering dedication of the Lagos Marathon organizers, who have elevated the event from a bronze to a gold label race. “We at the Okpekpe International 10km Road Race are pleased that the Lagos Marathon organizers have successfully followed the path we established as the first road running event in West Africa to have its course measured by a World Athletics certified measurer.” Additionally, Kanu noted that Enyimba’s youth project is thriving thanks to their partnership with Hamkam, attracting interest from more clubs. “We were the first to receive official recognition as a world-class event by World Athletics, having been awarded bronze label status in 2015, just eight years after the organization began classifying road races,” stated Amodu. The Okpekpe race organizer marked a decade of hosting the labeled race in 2024, and Amodu expressed understanding for the organizers in Lagos after their successful event on Saturday. He believes that the organizers of road races in Nigeria have established a strong foundation in the country and urges relevant authorities to build upon this progress. Additionally, in other news, Bassey expressed his pride in scoring the winning goal for Fulham against Nottingham Forest. In Nigeria, distance running is the most profitable athletic discipline, and the sooner the government takes intentional steps to promote it, the more beneficial it will be for the nation. Training and motivating our athletes to reach competitive times similar to those of East African runners could greatly alleviate poverty, create jobs, and positively affect our GDP. This initiative will also help counteract the negative influences on our youth, who are susceptible to engaging in criminal behaviors, as noted by Amodu. He expressed excitement over the fact that 20 road race courses have been measured and certified by World Athletics.
