Sports
Ethiopian duo emerge champions at 2023 ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon as Nigerian runners also shine
The 2023 ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon witnessed a thrilling display of athletic prowess, with Ethiopian runners claiming top honours in the half marathon men’s and women’s categories on Saturday.
Though it was the East Africans that carried the day, Nigerian athletes represented the sub-region meritoriously; shining brightly across the podium.
In the men’s half marathon, Gebresilase Abadi Haftamu of Ethiopia stormed to victory, securing a well-deserved first place and a hefty $10,000 prize.
While Kenya’s Alexander Njai Muhia, followed close behind in second, taking home $5,000, Nigeria’s Sadjo Ismael earned $4,000 for his third-place finish.
In the Women’s category Ethiopioa’s Belay Minsewo Abensah also snatched the top position.
Daylop Patience led the charge for Nigeria, claiming a fantastic second place in the women’s half marathon and earning $5,000 for her efforts. Maiate Yohanna Vera and Badung Pam Deborah finished third and fourth respectively, adding another layer of Nigerian success to the event.
The ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon offered generous prize money, acting as a powerful motivator for athletes across the continent.
The top ten finishers in the half marathon were richly rewarded, with each position receiving a substantial sum. From $3,500 for fourth place to $1,000 for tenth, the financial incentive fueled the competitive spirit and contributed to the overall success of the event.
The excitement wasn’t limited to the half marathon. The five-kilometre family and fun race also saw enthusiastic participation, with the top five finishers receiving prize money ranging from $750 for first place to $200 for fifth.
This inclusive category fostered a sense of community and encouraged engagement from runners of all levels.
Race Director Gabriel Okon expressed immense satisfaction with the event’s success, particularly lauding the calibre of runners who participated. He highlighted the growing stature of the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon and celebrated the improvement shown by Nigerian runners.
Francis Chuks Njoaguani, Director at ECOWAS Youth and Sports Development, extended gratitude to all those who contributed to the race’s success, including the Federal Capital Territory administration.
He further emphasized ECOWAS’ ongoing commitment to investing in initiatives that empower and improve the lives of youths across the West African sub-region.
Sports
No crisis in NAWIS ahead of AFN elections on Monday
Joel Ajayi
The Association of Nigerian Women in Sports (NAWIS), known for its orderliness since its establishment in 1990, continues to uphold its standards ahead of the upcoming Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) elections.
With members across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, NAWIS has consistently operated without external interference.
Over the years, its members have been nominated to various boards of national sports federations after meeting established criteria, including the payment of annual dues.
The association has attracted a strong base of respected sportswomen who have served the country with distinction, both during and after their active careers.
In preparation for the AFN elections, zonal elections were conducted on June 2 and 3, producing representatives for the national exercise.
While NAWIS initially planned to hold its election in Zaria, Kaduna State, the association’s headquarters, it was later rescheduled for Abuja on Monday, June 9, following directives from higher authorities.
Importantly, NAWIS has a set of strict guidelines that govern its electoral process, particularly the requirement for timely payment of annual dues. Failure to meet this condition results in automatic disqualification.
This guideline was the basis for the disqualification of Maria Wophil, who has reportedly not paid her annual dues since 2017. Her attempt to hurriedly settle outstanding debts just before the election was deemed non-compliant with NAWIS regulations.
Who is Fatima Yusuf-Olukoju?
Commonwealth gold medallist Fatima Yusuf-Olukoju is one of the leading contenders for the NAWIS representative position in the AFN.
She made history as the first African woman to run the 400m in under 50 seconds and brought glory to Nigeria by winning a silver medal in the 4x400m relay at the Atlanta 1996 Olympics.
Yusuf-Olukoju also claimed gold in the 400m at the 1991 All-Africa Games and silver in the 200m.
Based on nominations and her track record, Yusuf-Olukoju is considered the most qualified candidate. However, three other contenders have also shown interest, and the final decision will be made in the election slated for Monday, June 9, in Abuja.
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