By Ozioruva Aliu

BENIN CITY – THE Speaker of Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA), Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku has pledged support for the annual Owan 10km Marathon race scheduled for January 3, 2026.

The speaker made the pledge when the organisers of the race led by its founder, Mr Chris Ojo of Global Bridge Initiative, paid him a courtesy call in Benin City.

While commending the organisers for the initiative, the Speaker noted that it was time the event was supported by well-meaning Nigerians, especially those from the state extraction for its multiplier effect.

According to Agbebaku, “There is need for all to be involved in the activities of youths in society to help channel their energy away from social vices inimical to their growth and development.

“My plan is to ensure that the Owan Marathon initiative is turned into a statewide event where athletes who will represent the state in competitions can be picked,” he declared.

Earlier, the Convener Ojo, noted that the marathon was initiated to discover and groom talents for global stardom.

He also added that the annual race which entered its 5th edition, is aimed at developing youths towards sports development and growth.

Ojo also intimated the Speaker of the pet project Village Register, a project which pilot is for Owan to register all in the area to have adequate number of residents in a particular area.

The convener of Owan Marathon thereafter presented Mr Speaker’s kit for the Marathon event.

It would be recalled that the organiser of the 10km annual Owan marathon had disclosed a future plan to sponsor athletes from Owan communities to Sports University in Afuze.

The organisers said that the athletes to be affected would be participants at the annual event when the institution finally commences academy activities.

Ojo, however, said that the affected athletes would be top performers in the 10km annual race.

Meanwhile, other events are being planned for the 5th edition of Owan marathon as part of an effort to showcase the rich culture of the people.

Prize money has also been increased for the 5th edition of the annual marathon race scheduled for January 3, 2026.