May 12, 2018

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo has assured of more standard facilities and participation at subsequent Okpekpe International 10Km Road Race held annually in the state.

The governor gave the assurance while speaking with newsmen at the end of the 6th edition of race, held on Saturday at Okpekpe community in Estako East Local Government Area of Edo.

Obaseki said the 6th edition was the first after it was upgraded from bronze to silver label, adding that lots were done to ensure that the standard of the race was maintained.

“We have improved facilities and security to ensure that we maintain the status of the event and ensure success of the event. We will do more to promote the race,” he said.

The governor said the state would utilise the opportunity provided by the race to promote the rich cultural heritage of the state to the international community.

“The game gets improving in every edition; this administration will build around the infrastructure here to improve the lives of the people,” Obaseki said.

He added that there was need to improve on the publicity of the event in subsequent editions.

On his part, former governor of Edo, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole expressed delight in the success recorded during the 6th edition of the race.

Oshiomhole said the race had brought development to the rural dwellers of Okpekpe, noting that the people were using the opportunity provided by the race to improve on their businesses.

“We commend the organisers of the event as there have been great improvement and the race is helping us connect with the rural community,” he said.

The traditional ruler of Okpekpe community, His Royal Highness, Apa Peter Osigbemeh, commended Edo Government putting the community on the international map.

Osigbemeh said that the race had brought development to the people of the community.