Araoye: Ikogosi Race Demonstrates Power of Sports in Stimulating Local Economies
The 2026 Ikogosi 17.5km Road Race has demonstrated the capacity of sporting events to stimulate local economies, promote tourism and create employment opportunities, its initiator, Makinde Araoye, has said. Araoye
On October 31st, the fourth edition of the Ikogosi 17.5km Road Race demonstrated the significant economic impact of sports events in Nigeria, according to its founder Makinde Araoye. The race, which drew over 8,000 athletes and visitors from 28 Nigerian states and three African nations, fostered a surge in demand for local services.
Hotels in Ikogosi-Ekiti, Ilawe-Ekiti, and Ado-Ekiti achieved full occupancy during the race weekend. Local farmers supplied fruits like oranges, watermelons, and bananas, while food vendors and transport operators enjoyed increased business. The event also employed 200 volunteers and contracted local businesses for logistical support.
Ekiti-based vendors manufactured 8,000 running vests and 8,000 race bibs, extending economic benefits to local enterprises. Araoye, the founder of the Ikogosi Marathon Initiative, established in 2014, aimed to leverage sports for tourism development and sustainable economic opportunities. The 2026 race featured a N30 million prize purse, awarded to male and female winners as well as 40 Ekiti indigenes.
Approximately N550 million had been invested in sporting events under the initiative since its inception, funded by the MKD Araoye Foundation. Araoye emphasized the need for increased government support and private-sector investment to expand the event and establish Ekiti State as a prominent sports tourism destination.
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