The Edo Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), in collaboration with the Edo State Government, has unveiled the Gov. Monday Okpebholo Anti-Drug Abuse Marathon, a sports initiative targeting secondary school students.
Speaking at the launch in Benin on Thursday, NDLEA Commander in Edo, Mitchell Ofoyeju, said the marathon was in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises youth empowerment and the promotion of drug-free lifestyles.
Ofoyeju lamented the growing influence of drug abuse among young Nigerians, stressing the need for innovative and relatable solutions. He explained that sports remain a powerful tool to divert students from destructive habits while promoting teamwork, discipline, and fitness.
“The event is designed to attract teenagers with recreation and competition, while reinforcing anti-drug values. Winners also stand to gain exciting rewards,” Ofoyeju said.
The marathon comes with a ₦4.5 million prize pool, with the first-place winner receiving ₦2 million, the second-place winner ₦1.5 million, and the third-place finisher ₦1 million.
The maiden edition, open to students aged 13–17 from both public and private schools in Edo South, will take place on October 4. The race will begin at King’s Square, Benin City, and finish at Kada Junction along Benin–Sapele Road.
Registration is free and closes on September 30 via https://bit.ly/ndleaedo.
“The long-term goal is not only to fight drug abuse but also to groom a new generation of Nigerian marathon champions, comparable to the Kenyans and Ethiopians,” Ofoyeju added.
Subsequent editions will rotate across Edo Central and Edo North senatorial districts.
