It was speed, stamina, and spectacle in Benin City at the weekend as the second edition of the Benin City Marathon delivered a pulsating 10-kilometre race, with Cement Pam Badung and Alabi Aminat emerging champions in the men’s and women’s categories respectively.
Pam Badung of Plateau State powered to victory with an outstanding display of endurance and tactical brilliance, beating off stiff competition from Augustine Azuwike of Imo State, who finished second, while Wadata Bararu of Bauchi State settled for third.
In the women’s race, Aminat stole the spotlight with a commanding performance, crossing the finish line ahead of Deborah Pam Badung of Plateau State and Miracle Boluwatife of Ekiti State, who finished second and third respectively.
The city came alive on Saturday, April 4, as over a hundred runners from across Nigeria converged at Ogba Zoo for the highly anticipated race, which has quickly grown into one of the country’s emerging long-distance events.
The scenic route, stretching through key landmarks including the Nigerian Air Force Base, Benin Airport, and the iconic Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, offered both a physical challenge and a visual showcase of the city’s rich landscape.
Spectators lined major roads, cheering participants through Ihama Junction, Boundary Road, and the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Centre, creating an electrifying atmosphere that pushed runners to their limits.
Beyond the fierce competition, the marathon celebrated inclusivity and youth development, with 12-year-old Idowu Happiness earning admiration as the youngest participant.
The event’s success was bolstered by strong backing from Senator Neda Imasuen, whose support for grassroots sports development continues to gain recognition. Organisers, Zuid Sport International, were also praised for delivering a seamless and memorable experience.
