Ibadan Marathon will drive business growth — Makinde

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has said the Ibadan Marathon will significantly boost local businesses, create employment opportunities, and foster community bonds.

Speaking through the Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wosilat Adegoke, at a world press conference in Ibadan, Makinde highlighted the multiple benefits of the event.

“This initiative not only promotes health and fitness but also bolsters our local economy while showcasing the beauty of our vibrant city,” he said.”The Ibadan Marathon provides a wonderful opportunity for runners, families, and spectators to come together in celebration of sportsmanship and community spirit.”

The governor emphasised the marathon’s role in promoting Ibadan’s cultural heritage and attracting visitors from across Nigeria and beyond, thereby fostering economic growth.

Miss Arinola Idowu, CEO of Savvy Events Limited and franchise owner of the Ibadan Marathon, revealed that the 2024 event, themed ‘ERE IDARAYA,’ is designed to celebrate the city’s unity, strength, and rich history. She stressed the event’s aim to support small businesses, engage youth, and enhance the city’s brand.

The Ibadan Marathon, a joint effort between the Oyo State Government and Savvy Events, aligns with Governor Makinde’s agenda for infrastructural development and youth empowerment. It aims to position Oyo State as a hub for sports, commerce, and entertainment.The inaugural edition will feature a 42.195 km race and a 10 km fun run, with routes certified by GRADE A measurer Norrie Williamson and World Athletics. Both races will finish at Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, on Saturday, offering participants an exciting journey through Ibadan’s iconic landmarks.

This event marks a significant step in Makinde’s efforts to boost the state’s economy through sports tourism. It follows his administration’s investments in sports infrastructure, including the renovation of the Lekan Salami Sports Complex and other sporting facilities across the state.The Ibadan Marathon is expected to attract both local and international athletes, potentially putting Ibadan on the global marathon map. This could lead to increased tourism and business opportunities in the hospitality sector, street vending, and other related industries.

Local businesses along the marathon route are already preparing for the influx of visitors, with many hotels reporting increased bookings. Street vendors and local artisans are also gearing up to showcase their products to the expected crowds.

As Ibadan joins the ranks of cities hosting international marathons, the event is seen as a testament to the city’s growth and development under Makinde’s administration. It also serves as a platform to promote healthy living and fitness among residents of Oyo State.

The success of this inaugural event could pave the way for Ibadan to become a regular fixture in the international marathon calendar, further boosting its potential for economic growth and development.