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Sports heavyweights indicate readiness to volunteer at 2025 ECOWAS Marathon as registration starts

As preparations intensify for the 2025 ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon, key figures in the sports and fitness industry have expressed their eagerness to volunteer and contribute to the event’s success.

The marathon, set for March 1, 2025, is part of activities to celebrate ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary.

With thousands of runners expected to participate in the 21-kilometre half marathon and the 5-kilometre race, volunteers will be crucial in ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all.

Gabriel Okon, the Race Director emphasized the significance of volunteers in an event that dedicated individuals to handle various logistical and operational aspects.

“Marathon is not just about the runners; it’s about the team behind the scenes. Volunteers are the backbone of any successful race, from registration and logistics to hydration stations and medical support. Their role is invaluable in making the event smooth and enjoyable for everyone,” he said.

Application for volunteers opened Monday, February 3, 2025, and interested applicants can pick up a form at the Athletics Federation of Nigeria office, Moshood Abiola Stadium, Package A, Abuja.

Members of the sports family including athletes, coaches, fitness trainers, and others have pledged to support the event in different capacities, from technical assistance to race coordination and mentorship for young runners.

Expressing his delight at the overwhelming response, Okon remarked, “The enthusiasm we are seeing from volunteers is inspiring. From retired directors in the ministry, elite athletes, to community fitness trainers, so many people are eager to be part of this celebration of unity and athleticism. This is more than just a race—it’s a movement that brings people together for a greater cause.”

Beyond the competition itself, the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon represents an opportunity to promote health, youth empowerment, and regional unity through sports.

With over $71,000 in prize money up for grabs, the event is expected to attract elite runners while also encouraging participation from amateur fitness enthusiasts.

Okon stressed that the marathon is not only about athleticism but also about making a lasting impact. “We want this marathon to leave a lasting legacy beyond race day. It’s about inspiring people to embrace fitness, fostering friendships across borders, and promoting a culture of healthy living,” he said.

Interested participants can register at www.ecowasabujamarathon.org or visit the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) offices, FCT Sports councils, and local athletics associations across Nigeria.

Related Topics:2025 ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon

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McGuigan warns Joshua against fighting Bakole

Boxing legend Barry McGuigan has advised Anthony Joshua to steer clear of facing heavy-hitting Congolese fighter Martin Bakole.

Although rumors of a clash between Joshua and Bakole have circulated for years — with Bakole famously claiming to have hurt Joshua during a sparring session — McGuigan believes it would be a risky move for the British heavyweight star.

Joshua is at a critical point in his career after suffering a devastating knockout by Daniel Dubois in September. He has yet to announce details of his next fight.

Speaking on talkBOXING, McGuigan was clear in his assessment: “If I was managing Anthony Joshua, I wouldn’t go near Martin Bakole,” McGuigan said. “In my opinion, Joshua has only four fights left. He needs to be fighting for a title or against Tyson Fury.”

With Bakole’s reputation as “the most avoided heavyweight in the division,” McGuigan’s cautionary stance underscores the potential danger Joshua faces as he plots his comeback.

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Honourable Ukah Reelected As Captain Of Ibori Golf And Country Club

In a remarkable event of the day, Director General of the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency, Honourable Patrick Ukah has been reelected as the Captain of the Ibori Golf and Country Club (IGGC) in Asaba, Delta State, for the second time.

Honourable Ukah’s reelection came up during the Annual General Meeting of IGGC 2024 held on Sunday, February 2nd, 2025.

In his speech, Honourable Ukah feels excited and honour to be reelected into the prestigious position.

He said: “I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been re-elected as Captain of the Ibori Golf and Country Club (IGGC) in Asaba, Delta State, for the second time.

“As the Director General of the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency, I’m committed to driving innovation and growth in our state. In my role as Captain of IGGC, I promise to bring more excitement and development to the club, building on the progress we’ve made so far.

“I’m grateful for the trust and support of our members, and I look forward to working together to take IGGC to even greater heights.”

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Robotics Championships: NSC Boss, Youth Minister Unite To Keep Nigerian Youth Engaged

National Sports Commission Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko was joined by Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande at the the FirstLego League (FLL) National Robotics Championship 2025 organized with the support of the Federal Ministry of Education. at the indoor sports hall of the MKO Abiola National Stadium Abuja.

The sport showcases robot designs by students. This season’s theme ‘submerged’ challenged
participants to explore the depths of the ocean and create solutions for the challenges faced by professionals in underwater environments.

By engaging with this theme, students developed robot designs and projects that reflect the unique conditions of ocean exploration, fostering problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of marine science and technology.

There were demonstrations as the organizers showcased the sport to NSC Chairman and Minister of Youth Development highlighting the scoring systems and the intellectual challenges for the contestants as well as the potentials outcome to their career!

Dikko said, “I have been told that only one country has made this sport (robotics) an official sport. We will work with the organizers so that Nigeria could become the second country if all the parameters are right as this would get our youths engaged and help us to create the sports economy. It falls within our vision of harnessing the numerous potentials inherent in our youths through sports.”

Yewande’s words, “I have always advocated that every youth should have more than one skill. When we have somebody like Mallam Shehu Dikko at NSC it is much easier to create these opportunities for our youths. We will keep collaborating to take our youths off the streets and get them meaningfully engaged.”

The championship which lasts from January 26 to 30 will feature displays and demonstrations of robot building and design, programming, computational thinking, project research, time management, and teamwork. During the competition, a panel of judges, composed of industry professionals, will assess and score the students based on standard rubrics, including the core values of the First LegoLeague and First Tech Challenge programs.

Winners will earn the opportunity to represent Nigeria at international competitions in America, Europe, Asia, and South America, continuing their learning journey and contributing to the global conversation on innovation.