Stephen Nuhu Praises Okpekpe International 10km Road Race as a Blessing to Nigeria

Nigeria’s Okpekpe International 10km Road Race has been a game-changer for the country’s sports scene, according to renowned distance running coach Stephen Nuhu. Nuhu, who has played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s elite long distance runners, praised the race for its impact on the global stage and its inclusive approach towards both local and foreign athletes.

In a recent statement, Nuhu commended the organisers of the Okpekpe Race for consistently delivering a world-class event that has earned international recognition. He highlighted the race’s prestigious World Athletics Gold Label status, which was upgraded from silver in 2015, as a testament to Nigeria’s organizational prowess in sports.

Nuhu emphasized the race’s unique support for Nigerian elite athletes, noting that they receive the same level of accommodation and transport subsidy as their foreign counterparts. This equal treatment, he believes, has enabled Nigerian runners to focus on their performance and engage with international competitors, leading to valuable exchanges of ideas and training methods.

The coach expressed gratitude towards Mike Itemuagbor, the race promoter, for advocating for equal opportunities for Nigerian athletes and providing a platform for them to showcase their talent on a global scale. Nuhu believes that the Okpekpe Race, as a Paris Olympics qualifying event, presents a significant opportunity for Nigerian runners to excel and secure spots in major international competitions.

As the 10th edition of the Okpekpe International Road Race approaches on May 25th in Edo State, Nigeria, Nuhu remains optimistic about the future of Nigerian distance running. With a focus on breaking new records and producing world-class athletes, he envisions a bright future for Nigerian sports on the global stage.