Plateau State athletes reaffirmed their dominance in long-distance running at the 2nd Edition of the Ikogosi 17.5KM Marathon, held on Saturday, November 8, 2025. The race, organized by the Ikogosi Marathon Initiative (IMI), attracted thousands of runners and spectators from across Nigeria.

The marathon started at the Ilawe-Ekiti Roundabout and concluded at the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, a major tourist destination in Ekiti State, further promoting sports tourism and youth development in the region.

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Elite Categories: Plateau Sweeps Top Spots

In the men’s elite category, Plateau runners took all podium positions:

• Iliya Raymond Gyang – 57:33 minutes (1st)
• Francis James – 57:44 minutes (2nd)
• Sadjo Ismael – 59:16 minutes (3rd)

The women’s elite race was also dominated by Plateau athletes:

• Blessing Shamboa – 68:00 minutes (1st)
• Akusho Lydia Thomas – 70:12 minutes (2nd)
• Nvou Gyang Tanko – 71:15 minutes (3rd)

Their outstanding performances cement Plateau State’s reputation as home to some of Nigeria’s finest long-distance runners.

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Indigenous Athletes Shine

The IMI also recognized top performers from Ekiti State in the indigenous categories:

• Indigenous Male: Tunde Segun (Otun-Ekiti), Sunday Ijoko (Ijero-Ekiti), Agbalaya Alayande (Ado-Ekiti)
• Indigenous Female: Ona Ara Popoola (Ilawe-Ekiti), Imisioluwa Ajayi (Igbemo-Ekiti), Maria Ojanbati (Omuo-Ekiti)

These results highlight the growing depth of athletic talent and the potential of local athletes in Ekiti State.

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Marathon as a Catalyst for Youth and Community Development

Femi Abegunde, Race Consultant and Technical Leader, reported that 6,891 runners registered for the 2025 marathon, with 3,694 finishers completing the race. He emphasized that the Ikogosi Marathon has become a platform for youth empowerment, community engagement, and economic growth, attracting national attention and corporate sponsorship.

Support from the Ekiti State Government, alongside sponsors Premium Trust Bank and the MKD ARAOYE Foundation, contributed to the marathon’s success. Logistics and hospitality were provided by Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, while GossyWater ensured runner safety and hydration.

The event was officially flagged off by His Royal Majesty, Oba Ajibade Alabi, Alawe of Ilawe-Ekiti, who praised IMI for fostering unity, inclusion, and social transformation through sports.

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Looking Ahead

The Ikogosi Marathon Initiative (IMI) reaffirmed its commitment to positioning Ekiti State as a premier sports tourism destination, inspiring young athletes and strengthening the state’s cultural and economic profile nationally.

With each successful edition, the Ikogosi 17.5KM Marathon continues to energize local communities, boost sports tourism, and elevate Nigeria’s long-distance running legacy.