Ooni endorses maiden Olojo Festival 5km race to promote youth, fitness

History will be made this week in Ile-Ife, Osun State, as the ancient city prepares to host the maiden edition of the Olojo Festival 5km Road Race.

The event promises to combine culture, sports, and community spirit in a way that has never been seen before in Yorubaland.

The race, officially recognised by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), is scheduled to hold alongside the world-famous Olojo Festival.

The Olojo Festival, which means “Day of the First Dawn,” is one of the most important cultural celebrations in Yoruba land. It honours Ogun, the god of iron and war, and symbolises the mythical first day of creation in Yoruba tradition.

For many indigenes and visitors, the festival is not just about rituals but also a celebration of identity, heritage, and unity.

This year, the addition of a 5km road race marks a bold step to expand the festival’s activities.

The idea was conceived by Sooko Adeleke Odewade in collaboration with the Alade’fa Athletic Family Initiative.

With the blessing and endorsement of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the race aims to promote fitness, encourage youth development, and boost tourism in Ile-Ife.

Speaking about the vision, Race Director Tony Osheku — a respected coach in Nigerian athletics — explained why a 5km distance was chosen. “We want an event that is open to all. A 5km race is something both elite athletes and ordinary people can attempt.

It is short enough to be achievable, yet competitive enough to attract serious runners. We are making this inclusive for professionals, amateurs, students, and the local community,” he said.
Beyond the competition, organisers believe the event will have a lasting impact.

According to Osheku, the race is expected to bring excitement to Ile-Ife, draw sponsors and tourists, and support local businesses such as hotels, traders, and transport operators. The cultural and economic benefits, he added, will go hand in hand.

Odewade also stressed that the project is about more than a single day of running. “This is a platform to identify raw talent in athletics. But it will not end with the race.

We are working on a long-term plan of coaching, mentorship, and support to nurture young athletes who may one day represent Nigeria at international competitions,” he said.

Every participant will be recognised with a Certificate of Participation, while special cash prizes will be given to winners in different categories.

The organisers hope this reward system will motivate runners and encourage greater participation in future editions.
An official from the Alade’fa Initiative described the race as a cultural and social investment.

“This is not just a sporting event. It is a movement that celebrates our youth, promotes healthy living, and strengthens the cultural soul of Ile-Ife.

The Olojo Festival is about history and spirituality, but with this road race, it is also about the future.”
With strong community backing, royal endorsement, and professional organisation, the Olojo Festival 5km

Road Race is set to stand out as more than a competition. It is an opportunity for Ile-Ife to showcase its heritage, for young athletes to shine, and for the festival itself to grow into an even bigger global attraction.