Athletes coming for the maiden five-kilometre road race, which is part of the Fifth Olojo Festival, have been assured of a conducive atmosphere to gun for the various prizes in the ancient city of Ile-Ife.
The race is the first road race recognised by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) to be organised alongside a major cultural celebration.
Olojo, meaning “Day of the First Dawn,” honours Ogun, the god of iron and war, and celebrates the mythical first day of creation in Yoruba cosmology.
Conceived by Sooko Adeleke Odewade in partnership with the Alade’fa Athletic Family Initiative, and endorsed by Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the race aims to empower youth, promote healthy living, and diversify the festival’s offerings.
Race Director, Tony Osheku, said: “We want a race that is open to all Nigerian elite runners and everybody in and around Ile-Ife. A 5km distance is achievable for most people, making it inclusive for amateur runners and youth.
“Road races generate excitement and coverage, amplifying the festival’s reach. The race can draw spectators, sponsors, and tourists, boosting local businesses and the hospitality sector,” Osheku, who organised the first world-class cross-country race in Nigeria in Jos in 2023, said.
