Two time presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore has challenged the President Bola Tinubu to join him and thousands of other runners at the starting line of the ECOWAS Marathon.
Sowore believes that Tinubu participation in competition will set an inspiring example for the entire nation.
Sowore said this on Thursday at the Eagles Square vehicle park when he went to pick his running kit ahead of the competition billed for December 16, 2023. A festive atmosphere erupted as Sowore parked his car with a crowd of traders and passersby engaged with who they consider ‘People’s President’.
After grabbing his kit and bib, Sowore commended ECOWAS for the marathon initiative. He maintained that it is “the best thing anyone can do” by embracing exercise and the culture of running.
He shared his own experience, stating that since taking up running, his health has improved dramatically, reducing his reliance on hospitals and making him a “better person.”
ECOWAS Chairman’s participation
However, Sowore couldn’t help but notice a glaring absence: President Tinubu, the Chairman of ECOWAS, had yet to indicate his participation in either the half marathon or the 5km fun race. “As of now,” Sowore remarked, “there’s no sign of his bib or participation.”
He emphasized that “we can’t have the ECOWAS Marathon in Nigeria without the chairman of the sub-regional body participating”.
Sowore, a seasoned marathoner with global experience, including the New York Marathon, believes that leaders must lead by example, and “walking the talk” is the most impactful way to do so.
He argued that if President Tinubu actively encouraged running and participated in the ECOWAS marathon, it would inspire countless Nigerians to follow suit, leading to a healthier nation and potentially reducing healthcare costs for the government.
Robinson Okosun, a Ph.D. holder in Physical and Health Education with a specialization in Sports Psychology, echoed Sowore’s praise for the initiative.
Attributing his own “smart and trim” physique to his love of exercise, Okosun applauded the organisers and sponsors of the marathon.
He further highlighted the potential of the hefty prize money, exceeding $70,000, to lift many Nigerians out of poverty.
Meanwhile, organisers have enjoined all registered and intending participants to come to the Eagles Square to collect their running kits, number bibs, and goodie bags.
Saturday’s half-marathon will begin at 7:00 am in front of the ECOWAS Secretariat, while the 5km fun race will start at Bannex Plaza at 7.30 am with both races climaxing at Eagles Square.
