Okpekpe International 10km Road Race Set for Thrilling Comeback on May 23
The Okpekpe International 10km Road Race, widely recognized as Nigeria's most prestigious road-running event, is poised for a grand and highly anticipated comeback on May 23, 2026. Organizers have confirmed that the 11th edition will feature new innovations and an even larger spectacle, marking a strong return after unforeseen circumstances led to the cancellation of last year's race.
Stronger Return After Cancellation
Mike Itemuagbor, CEO of Pamodzi Sports International, officially announced the race's return, emphasizing its resilience and enhanced stature. 'The Okpekpe race is coming back stronger in 2026,' Itemuagbor stated. 'Circumstances beyond our control ensured we could not hold last year. We have received a lot of inquiries from both athletes and officials who wanted to participate in the event, and we explained to them that the race will come back this year for its 11th edition.' He expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from thousands who reached out via telephones, emails, and social media, assuring them that the event is here to stay.
Historic Significance and Global Recognition
The Okpekpe Road Race holds a special place in Nigerian sports history, having achieved several notable firsts:
- It was the first road-running event in Nigeria to have its course measured by a World Athletics-certified measurer.
- In 2015, it became the first road race in West Africa to earn label status from World Athletics.
- Since then, it has progressed from bronze to gold label status, attracting elite athletes from countries such as Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Morocco, Bahrain, and Nigeria.
Beyond athletic prestige, the race has significantly transformed the Okpekpe community in Edo State, opening up this rural town to global attention and bringing substantial economic and tourism benefits. Itemuagbor highlighted this impact, noting, 'We are delighted that we have been able to turn Nigeria into a destination of sort for sports in the world, opened the rustic, rural Okpekpe community and its environs to the world, and have encouraged so many other road race organizers to emulate what we have been doing and get them to aspire to get label status.'
Record Performances and Future Innovations
The race has witnessed remarkable athletic achievements, with Daniel Ebenyo setting the men's course record at 28:28 in 2023 and Caroline Kipkirui holding the women's record at 32:38. For the 2026 edition, organizers are introducing fresh innovations designed to enhance the experience for athletes, fans, and the local community, while maintaining its reputation as a world-class competition. Details of these innovations are expected to be unveiled closer to the event date.
Anticipation for a Thrilling Chapter
With anticipation building rapidly, the May 23 race promises to deliver another thrilling chapter in the legacy of the Okpekpe International 10km Road Race. Expectations are high for potential record-breaking performances, the emergence of new champions, and a showcase of Nigeria's sporting prestige on the global stage. The event is set to reinforce its status as a cornerstone of Nigerian athletics and a beacon for international road-running competitions.
