Home – About
The Okehi Marathon Race (OMR) is an annual athletic event held in the Okehi Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. Launched on December 30th, 2024, the marathon has quickly become one of the most anticipated sporting events in the region, attracting both local and visiting athletes from across the country.
Theme: Unity Race (2nd Edition was held in December 2025)
The race takes runners through rolling hills, lush greenery, and serene rural communities, offering participants and spectators breathtaking views of Okehi’s natural beauty. The cheerful sounds of drums, chants, and local music fill the air as residents line the roadsides to cheer on the runners, creating an atmosphere of unity, celebration, and pride.
The inaugural edition set a remarkable tone for what is now a growing tradition. Although local talents gave their best, it was runners from Jos, Plateau State, who dominated the first race. Musa Bala Satti clinched the championship title with a stellar time of 43 minutes and 11 seconds, followed closely by Geoffrey Captain Goman and Charity Agofure, who finished in 47 minutes 30 seconds and 53 minutes 29 seconds, respectively.
Prizes featured substantial cash rewards (with main prizes reaching up to ₦2,000,000 for top winners and millions allocated for runners-up across categories), while several others who completed the race within 1 hour 30 minutes received consolation rewards for their endurance and determination. Every participant was applauded, as completing the marathon itself was a symbol of courage, fitness, and community spirit.
Beyond competition, the Okehi Marathon is a festival of health, fun, and togetherness. It encourages physical fitness, mental wellness, and social connection among people of all ages. Runners get to challenge themselves, meet new friends, and enjoy the beauty of nature in motion.
The route spanned the iconic local points across Kogi Central, running from areas like Okene/Adavi through to the grand finale finish line at Okaito.
This year’s edition promises to be even more exciting and colorful, with bigger prizes, improved organization, and new entertainment packages for participants and spectators alike. Whether you’re running, cheering, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, the Okehi Marathon Race offers an unforgettable experience.
1st Place
2nd Place
3rd Place
1st Place
2nd Place
3rd Place
1st Place
2nd Place
3rd Place
1st Place
2nd Place
3rd Place
To organize an annual world-class marathon that encourages physical wellness, discovers and develops emerging athletes, strengthens community ties, and stimulates local economic activity through partnerships, tourism, and youth engagement.
To become a leading community-based sporting platform that inspires healthy living, nurtures athletic talent, and promotes unity and socio-economic growth across Okehi Local Government and beyond.
Promotes grassroots sports talent discovery, community unity, healthy living, and local tourism
Included divisions for male and female participants, as well as distinct indigenous (local) and non-indigenous runner categories.
1. Promote Healthy Lifestyle: To encourage regular physical activity and wellness culture among youths and adults in Okehi and neighbouring communities. 2. Develop Local Athletic Talent: To identify, support, and promote promising runners by creating pathways to national and international competitions. 3. Strengthen Community Unity: To foster togetherness and pride among residents through active community participation and volunteerism. 4. Boost Local Economy & Tourism: To drive business activity and increase visibility of Okehi through tourism, hospitality, and market engagement during the event. 5. Youth Engagement & Empowerment: To create meaningful participation opportunities for young people through sports, volunteering, and career-building exposures. 6. Partnership & Collaboration: To work closely with government agencies, NGOs, private sector organizations, and local institutions to enhance planning and impact outcomes. 7. Promote Peace & Social Inclusion: To use sports as a platform to encourage peaceful coexistence, break social barriers, and promote inclusiveness among all demographic groups. 8. Sustainability & Growth: To establish a structured annual event that grows in scale, quality, and influence while ensuring long-term sustainability through sponsorships and community ownership.
Get race alerts and updates.
Okehi Marathon Race 2026
Copyright © 2026. All rights reserved