After a four-year break, the much-anticipated 12th edition of the Splash FM Ibadan City Marathon returned on Sunday with thrilling performances and high spirits as Mathias Gotwen and Charity Agbofure emerged winners of the 42.19km race in the men’s and women’s categories, respectively.
  
Gotwen crossed the finish line with an impressive time of two hours, 35 minutes, 24 seconds, earning the N1.2 million top prize. In the women’s category, Agbofure clinched victory with a time of three hours, seven seconds to walk away with N800,000.

The race, which began at the historic Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, was organised by West Midland Communications, owners of Splash FM and Lagelu FM, with support from the Oyo State government and several partners. Thousands of residents lined the route, cheering on the runners and celebrating the event’s return.
 
The five-kilometre race also delivered a competitive field, with Abubakar Ayomide winning the men’s division with a time of 37:49:09, followed by Alabi Olusegun (37:56:40).
 
In a surprise highlight, Omoyele Sowore, human rights activist and 2023 presidential candidate, finished third with 38:25:07.
Sowore praised the event, saying: “Running alongside young Nigerians here in Ibadan is proof that sports is a unifier. This marathon represents the resilience of our people, and I’m glad to be part of it.”
 
In the women’s five-km, Adebayo Fathia came first with 39:22:07, ahead of Ojo Anuoluwa (40:19:07) and Afigbo Esther (41:06:08).  A heartwarming moment came with the participation of 76-year-old retired soldier, Enibukun Oyewole, who completed the five-km race.
 
“It is a passion. I have been running since 1973, and I will keep running as long as I have the strength,” he told reporters.

Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke Adefemi, applauded the event, calling it a symbol of community unity and youth empowerment.
 
“This race shows how sports can bring communities together and inspire our youth. The Makinde-led administration remains committed to expanding opportunities for young athletes.” Olori Dr. Onikepo Akande also commended the return of the marathon, acknowledging Governor Seyi Makinde’s role in supporting sports in the state.
 
General Manager of Splash FM, Mr. Tunde Olawuwo, praised the participants and volunteers: “This is more than a marathon; it is a tradition of excellence. We will continue to build on this legacy until the Ibadan City Marathon attains global recognition.”