Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has called on Nigerians to embrace active lifestyles, community engagement, and the unifying power of sports, describing them as critical drivers of national health, peace, and cohesion.
Governor Okpebholo made the call on Saturday through his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, during the flag-off of the 2025 Olympic Day Celebration at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.
This year’s theme, “Let’s Move Together for Health and Active Community,” marked the annual global commemoration of the birth of the modern Olympic movement, inspired by Pierre de Coubertin. While traditionally observed on June 23 globally, Nigeria marked it on June 28.
Representing the Governor, Deputy Governor Idahosa described the Olympic Day as a reminder of the transformative power of sports, urging citizens to prioritise physical activity and social inclusion.
“Olympic Day serves as an ideal occasion to move. Sport fortifies both our mind and body, promotes well-being, and inspires us to dream. It ignites joy and fosters unity,” Idahosa stated.
He emphasised that beyond physical fitness, sports foster social bonds and a collective sense of purpose, transcending cultural, social, and political divides.
“This day is more than a celebration, it is a movement. It reminds us that no matter our background or pace, we belong to one global sporting family,” he added.
Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, reiterated the inclusive spirit of the Olympic Day, stressing that it was less about competition and more about participation, unity, and shared values.
“This run is not about who finishes first, but about showing up, staying active, and embracing togetherness, equality, and resilience,” Enabulele noted.
He commended sponsors, volunteers, and participants, describing their enthusiasm as a strong endorsement of the ideals of health, peace, and sportsmanship.
The event featured over 300 athletes budding and elite including notable figures like Nigerian swimmer Rachael Tonjor, who competed at the 2016 Rio Olympics, and 1972 Olympic boxing bronze medalist Isaac Ikhuoria.
The early morning fitness run kicked off from the Main Bowl of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium at about 8:00 AM, moving through Ekehuan Road, Oba Ovonramwen Square, Plymouth Road, Akenzua Street, and back to the stadium. Residents and motorists lined the designated routes, cheering as participants, including Edo State Sports Commission cyclists performing choreographed displays, jogged past. The celebration climaxed with the presentation of certificates of participation to the Deputy Governor and other participants, reinforcing the day’s inclusive, festive, and symbolic spirit.
