A sitting governor in Nigeria instead of organizing a marathon in Oyo state and use that opportunity to participate in the racing went to faraway USA to participate in a marathon organized by others
By ChukwumaNdiogulu
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has made headlines by participating in the Houston Half Marathon in the United States, completing the race in an impressive 2 hours and 53 minutes . While it’s commendable that the governor is prioritizing his fitness, it’s interesting that he chose to participate in a marathon abroad instead of organizing one in Oyo State.
The governor’s decision to participate in the Houston Half Marathon without his security details is indeed noteworthy, especially considering the vastly different security concerns between Nigeria and the USA. In Nigeria, governors typically move around with a large security entourage, so it’s refreshing to see Governor Makinde feeling safe enough to participate in a public event without his security team.
However, one can’t help but wonder why Governor Makinde didn’t organize a marathon in Oyo State, which would have provided an excellent opportunity to empower Nigerian racers and promote local talent. Nevertheless, the governor’s enthusiasm for fitness is inspiring, and his participation in the Houston Half Marathon is a testament to his dedication to staying active.
As Governor Makinde himself noted, “Glad to have completed the Houston Half Marathon in 2 hours 53 minutes today… I finished faster than the Berkeley Half Marathon which I ran about 2 years ago.” His accomplishment is certainly worthy of recognition, and Oyo State indigenes should indeed be proud of their governor’s achievement. Who knows? Maybe Governor Makinde will inspire a new generation of Nigerian marathon runners!
Exerpt
A sitting governor in Nigeria instead of organizing a marathon in Oyo state and use that opportunity to participate in the racing went to faraway USA to participate in a marathon organized by others.
It is so interesting to see a sitting governor in Nigeria participating in a marathon in USA without his security details. He was so assured of his safety unlike in Nigeria where he moves around with over 20 security men.
I love his desire to keep fit but I don’t know why he couldnt organize a marathon in Oyo state and use that opportunity to empower Nigerian racers.
Here is what governor Makinde said
“Glad to have completed the Houston Half Marathon in 2 hours 53 minutes today. Though conditions were tough with freezing temperatures at 1 degree Celsius, I finished faster than the Berkeley Half Marathon which I ran about 2 years ago. I also took part in a 5k fun run yesterday which I completed in 38 minutes”
Well, I think every Oyo indigen should stand up and give a thunderous hands of applause to their governor as he is set to be the next Geoffrey Mutai of Kenya in the world of marathon.
