Former Governor of Edo State, Adams Oshiomhole, has officially kicked off his preparations for the highly anticipated 2026 Okpekpe International 10km Road Race. In a viral video, the ex-governor showcased his early training commitment, generating significant buzz for the event scheduled for May 2026.
Oshiomhole's Early Training Regimen Revealed
In the widely circulated clip, Oshiomhole was seen power-walking while donned in the event's official white t-shirt. He provided tangible proof of his dedication by displaying his phone screen, which tracked a distance of 8.92 kilometers covered in 85 minutes. This effort resulted in an expenditure of 492 calories.
"Getting ready for the Okpekpe race in May 2026," Oshiomhole stated. "It's good to start practicing; events don't just happen overnight. To cover 10km in a mainly hilly environment with valleys and fresh air... that is why I put on my Okpekpe t-shirt." His early start underscores the challenging nature of the course and his personal commitment to participating.
Why Okpekpe is Declared "The Best in the World"
Oshiomhole did not hold back in his praise for the event, elevating it above its global peers. He highlighted two paramount factors: its official recognition and its unparalleled natural setting.
The race holds the historic distinction of being the first road race in West Africa to receive a World Athletics label, a mark of elite global standard. Beyond the prestige, Oshiomhole passionately described the physical course. He proclaimed it the best road race globally, citing its beautiful terrain of hills and valleys, lush greenery, and complete absence of pollution.
"It's greens all over the place, and an innocent community with no pollution, clean air," he said. "If you want people with African and traditional village hospitality, the natives are the best."
Expert Validation of the Unique Course
Fitness and athletics experts confirm that the Okpekpe environment offers exceptional benefits for runners. The combination of a hilly landscape and pristine air enhances cardiovascular conditioning, builds muscle strength, improves lung efficiency, and provides mental restoration. This unique blend of physical challenge and natural serenity boosts both performance and recovery.
This view is strongly supported by international authority Norrie Williamson, a World Athletics-certified course measurer from South Africa who has served as a technical delegate for the race. "The Okpekpe race terrain is one of the most unique in the world," Williamson affirmed.
"The hills and valleys make it a true test for athletes, while the clean air and natural environment provide conditions that are rare in road running. It is not just about the competition; the course itself is an experience. Okpekpe offers a blend of athletic rigor and cultural authenticity that few races can match."
The convergence of political endorsement from a figure like Oshiomhole and technical acclaim from global bodies sets the stage for the 2026 Okpekpe International 10km Road Race to be a landmark event, further cementing Nigeria's place on the world athletics map.
