From Moshood Karim
The National Institute for Sports (NIS) has thrown its weight behind the Okpekpe 10km Road Race ahead of the 2026 edition, signalling a major boost for Nigeria’s most prestigious road running event and its ambition to reach the elite Diamond Label status.
The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NIS, Comrade Philip Shaibu, disclosed the partnership in an update on his verified social media handle on Wednesday, confirming that the globally acclaimed race will take place on May 23, 2026, in Edo State.
Shaibu said the decision to partner the Okpekpe race was driven by its proven record of excellence and consistency, describing it as a flagship sporting event that has elevated Nigeria’s profile on the international athletics stage.
“I proudly endorsed this World Athletics Gold Label race because Okpekpe is more than a competition—it is a symbol of consistency, excellence, and Nigerian pride,” he said, noting that the organisers have sustained the race annually since 2013, an achievement he described as deserving of national recognition.
According to the NIS boss, the institute’s support will focus particularly on athlete training and capacity building, with the aim of delivering an even more successful outing in 2026 and accelerating the race’s push towards the Diamond Label, the highest classification awarded by World Athletics.
“At NIS, we will support the organisers especially in the area of athlete training. With continued collaboration and stakeholder support, I am confident that Okpekpe will soon attain the Diamond Label,” Shaibu stated.
In a personal show of commitment, Shaibu also revealed that he would be competing in the 10km race, adding that preparations were already underway. He described the Okpekpe race as both a personal passion and a national asset.
“This won’t be my first Okpekpe race—and it certainly won’t be my last. Okpekpe is the pride of Edo State and the pride of Nigeria. Together, we will keep raising the bar,” he said.
The Okpekpe 10km Road Race remains Nigeria’s first road race to earn a World Athletics label and is widely regarded as a benchmark for long-distance running events in Africa, attracting elite international athletes and showcasing Edo State as a global sporting destination.
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