More than 1,000 athletes are set to participate in the inaugural Ajegunle Youth Marathon on Saturday, November 30, according to the event organizers.

The marathon’s activities commenced with a VIP race held the previous Saturday, featuring notable personalities, political leaders, and celebrities. The 2.5-kilometer VIP race started at the Ifelodun Local Council Development Area and concluded at the Ajeromi/Ifelodun Local Government Secretariat.

The event was officially flagged off by Oba Moroof Amodu-Tijani (Amore III), the Olu of Iwa and Apapa Kingdom, along with representatives of the local councils. Oba Amodu-Tijani highlighted the marathon’s role in promoting peace, unity, and harmony across Ajegunle’s diverse ethnic and religious communities.

“This marathon will help unify our diverse groups and promote a spirit of togetherness. We appreciate the National Youth Council of Nigeria for this brilliant initiative,” he remarked.

Isaac Moses, the project leader for the Ajegunle City Youth Marathon, shared key details about the main event. He confirmed the participation of over 1,000 runners and assured attendees of robust security arrangements involving the Nigerian Police, Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps, and the Federal Road Safety Commission. He also mentioned that the Lagos State Ministry of Health would provide two ambulances for medical emergencies, while free health checks would be available for attendees.

Isaac Omoleye, the Coordinator of the National Youth Council of Nigeria in Ajeromi/Ifelodun, emphasized the marathon’s goal of promoting fitness, fostering unity, and showcasing the hidden talents within the Ajegunle community.

The main race will start at Maracana Stadium and finish at the Nigerian Army Signals Barracks Sports Ground, Mile 2, Lagos.