Sowore challenges Tinubu to run in Saturday’s ECOWAS Marathon

Two-time presidential candidate of African Action Congress in Nigeria’s Presidential Elections, Omoyele Sowore has challenged Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed
Tinubu to register and run in the ECOWAS half marathon scheduled to hold this weekend in Abuja.

Sowore said this on Thursday at Eagle Square after collecting his kit and bib (running number) for Saturday’s race.

The human rights activist priased organizers of the event and ECOWAS for what he called ‘a step in the right direction’ with the staging of the race over the
years.

He noticed that President Tinubu, the Chairman of ECOWAS, hadn’t yet indicated 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.”

He urged President Tinubu to join him and thousands of other runners at the starting line, setting an inspiring example for the entire nation.

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.