May 26 (THEWILL) – The Okpekpe 10km International Road Race, a highly anticipated event in Edo State, will commence on Saturday, in Okpekpe, with Comrade Philip Shaibu, the sports-loving Deputy Governor, leading the flag-off.
Dare Esan, the Media and Activation Director for the international race, revealed yesterday that Shaibu will assume a dual role, both initiating the race and participating in the celebrity competition itself. During a ceremony held in Benin on Wednesday, Shaibu, an active sportsman known for his contributions to Edo State sports, received his running bib after registering online for the race. Esan emphasised that all eyes will be on the 53-year-old Deputy Governor to witness if he can surpass his personal best in the 10km event.
Meanwhile, Dan Oil and Petrochemicals has recently joined the roster of corporate partners for the race, aligning with the event in line with their commitment to supporting Nigerian sports and the nation’s economy. Expressing his delight about this, Esan stated: “We are thrilled to partner with Dan Oil, one of the leading indigenous oil and gas companies in Nigeria, whose services are dedicated to meeting the energy demands necessary for driving the Nigerian economy and enabling the movement of equipment and machinery.”

He further highlighted the overwhelming support the race has garnered from corporate Nigeria and expressed confidence that the race’s aspiration for a Platinum label, as mentioned by the Deputy Governor, will soon be achieved.
The ninth edition of the Okpekpe 10km International Road Race is scheduled to take place this Saturday in Okpekpe, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State.