Okpekpe International 10km Road Race: New Medical Director, Major Sponsors, and the Race’s Growing Impact on Nigerian Athletics and Tourism
The Okpekpe International 10km Road Race, Nigeria’s premier World Athletics Gold Label event, continues to set new benchmarks in African road running. In a significant development ahead of its 11th edition, the organisers have appointed Dr. Bojuwoye as the race’s new Medical Director. Dr. Bojuwoye, a seasoned medical professional with extensive experience in road running events across Nigeria, is expected to bring added value to the race through his expertise in sports medicine and emergency response.
Dr. Bojuwoye’s Role: Ensuring Athlete Safety and World-Class Medical Standards
As Medical Director, Dr. Bojuwoye’s responsibilities will include overseeing emergency medical response, coordinating first aid stations along the course, ensuring athlete safety, and supervising medical volunteers and paramedics. His role is critical in safeguarding the health of both elite and recreational runners, as well as spectators. This appointment underscores the race’s commitment to meeting the stringent safety and medical standards required for its World Athletics Gold Label status.
For context, Gold Label races require a comprehensive medical plan that includes rapid response teams, defibrillators at every kilometre, and hydration stations staffed by trained personnel. Dr. Bojuwoye’s experience—having managed medical operations at similar high-profile events—ensures that Okpekpe remains a safe and competitive environment for athletes from around the world.
Five New Corporate Partners: A Sign of Growing Economic Appeal
In addition to unveiling its new medical director, the organisers also announced five corporate partners for the 2026 edition. The Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN), Petralon Energy, Razzl Drink, Dan Oil, and Carloha Motors have joined as sponsors, reflecting the race’s growing appeal across diverse sectors of the Nigerian economy. This diverse sponsorship portfolio—spanning finance, energy, beverages, and automotive—demonstrates how the race has become a platform for brand visibility and corporate social responsibility.
Race Director Zack Amodu noted that the new partnerships underscore the event’s stature and its impact beyond sport. “We are delighted to welcome DBN, Petralon, Razzl, and Carloha Motors as partners for the 11th edition. Their support, alongside the backing of Edo State, not only strengthens the race but also reinforces its role as a platform for promoting excellence, youth empowerment, and community development,” Amodu said.
From Local Race to Global Benchmark: The Okpekpe Journey
The Okpekpe race, organised by Pamodzi Sports Marketing Company, has steadily risen in prominence since becoming the first road race in Nigeria to earn World Athletics label status in 2015. It has since advanced to Gold Label Race status, attracting elite athletes from around the world and cementing its reputation as one of Africa’s benchmark road-running competitions. This progression mirrors the broader growth of Nigerian athletics on the global stage, with Okpekpe serving as a key platform for both local talent and international stars.
For example, past editions have seen world-record holders and Olympic medallists compete, providing Nigerian runners with invaluable exposure to world-class competition. The race also serves as a qualifying event for major championships, further elevating its importance in the global athletics calendar.
Edo State’s Commitment: Tourism, Pride, and International Recognition
Edo State, under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebolo, has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the race, citing its role in promoting tourism, community pride, and international recognition for the region. The state government’s backing includes logistical support, security, and infrastructure improvements along the race route. This partnership has transformed Okpekpe from a local event into a destination race that attracts visitors from across Nigeria and beyond.
Tourism officials estimate that the race generates significant economic activity through hotel bookings, local transportation, and food sales, with many participants and spectators extending their stay to explore Edo State’s cultural and historical attractions, such as the Benin City National Museum and the Okomu National Park.
Beyond Sport: Social, Health, and Economic Benefits
Beyond its sporting significance, the Okpekpe International 10km Road Race has become a catalyst for social, health, and economic benefits. It encourages fitness and healthy lifestyles, fosters social cohesion by bringing communities together, and generates economic activity through tourism, hospitality, and local commerce. The event also showcases Edo State’s cultural vibrancy while contributing to Nigeria’s growing reputation in global athletics.
Community health initiatives tied to the race include free medical screenings and fitness workshops, which have helped raise awareness about non-communicable diseases such as hypertension and diabetes. Local businesses, from street vendors to formal hospitality providers, report a noticeable uptick in revenue during race week.
Looking Ahead: The 11th Edition and Beyond
The 11th edition is expected to draw elite athletes, local participants, and international attention, further consolidating Nigeria’s place on the global athletics calendar. With a new medical director, a robust sponsorship portfolio, and unwavering state support, the Okpekpe race is poised to continue its trajectory as a model for sports-driven development in Africa.
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