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 2 hours, 35 minutes, 24 seconds, earning the ₦1.2 million top prize. In the women’s category, Agbofure secured victory with a time of 3 hours, 00 minutes, 07 seconds, walking away with ₦800,000.

The marathon, which started 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 5km race also featured a competitive field. Abubakar Ayomide claimed victory in the men’s division with a time of 37:49:09, followed by Alabi Olusegun (37:56:40). In a surprising 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 sport is a unifier. This marathon represents the resilience of our people, and I am glad to be part of it.”

In the women’s 5km, Adebayo Fathia finished first with a time of 39:22:07, ahead of Ojo Anuoluwa (40:19:07) and Afigbo Esther (41:06:08). A touching moment occurred when 76-year-old retired soldier Enibukun Oyewole completed the 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, Hon. Wasilat Adegoke Adefemi, praised 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, recognising Governor Seyi Makinde’s role in supporting sports in the state.

The General Manager of Splash FM, Mr. Tunde Olawuwo, lauded 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 worldwide recognition.”

Oba Adebayo Akande, founder of West Midland Communications, conveyed deep gratitude to God, stakeholders, and the marathoners: “To the marathoners, your very presence here is a mark of victory. Whatever the outcome, you are our champions.”

He also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the National Sports Commission, volunteers, and medical teams.

Dignitaries at the event included the CEO of Splash FM, Mrs. Atinuke Adetunji, and the Zonal Coordinator of the Nigeria Sports Commission (South West), Mrs. Evelyn Fagbemi, among others.