By Abdullahi Abdulrahman, Yenagoa
National News — Bayelsa State is set to make history with the maiden edition of the Yenagoa International 10KM Race, a landmark sporting event aimed at placing the state on the global athletics map and boosting tourism and economic activities.
The competition will take place tomorrow, Saturday, April 4th, 2026, by 9 o’clock in the morning.
The race, which is expected to attract elite and international athletes, is part of broader efforts by the Bayelsa State Government to promote sports development, youth engagement, and international visibility for the state.
At a press conference held in Government House in Yenagoa on Friday, the Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Daniel Igali, described the event as more than just a competition, noting that it is a strategic initiative designed to push Bayelsa into the international spotlight.
Igali also urged residents of the state to come out in large numbers to witness what he described as a historic milestone in Bayelsa’s sporting history.
“This event brings together elite and international athletes and will boost the economic and social standing of the state,” Igali said.
The Managing Director of Nilayo Sports, Mrs. Yetunde Olopade, disclosed that over 1,000 registered participants have been confirmed for the race, which is structured into three categories to ensure fairness and competitiveness.
She added that technical and medical teams have been strategically positioned along the race course to ensure the safety of participants.
Olopade expressed appreciation to the Bayelsa State Government and sponsors for supporting the initiative.
“I want to thank the Governor of Bayelsa State, Hon. Douye Diri, along with the sponsors of this event, for giving the state the opportunity to appear on the global sports radar,” she said.
She further announced prize money for winners across categories, with $5,000 for first place, $3,000 for second place, and $2,000 for third place, while the first Bayelsa finisher will receive ₦1,000,000.
Additionally, the Bayelsa State Ministry of Sports will award ₦500,000 each to the first male and female Bayelsa indigenes to complete the race.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Information, Hon. Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Ebiyai, highlighted the role of the race in fostering youth engagement and social development, while reassuring visitors of the state’s safety and hospitality.
She welcomed partners and world-class athletes from Ethiopia, Uganda, and Kenya, assuring them of a memorable experience.
“Bayelsa is one of the safest states in Nigeria, so feel free, enjoy yourselves, and enjoy the event proceedings,” she said.
The Technical Manager for the race, Yusuf Ali, explained that every runner will be chipped to track their progress from start to finish, while a blue light will be installed along the route to guide participants.
He also noted that multiple refreshment stations would be positioned along the race route to cater to competitors.
Organizers described the 10KM race as a test run, noting that if successful, it would serve as the foundation for Bayelsa’s transition into hosting full-length international marathons in the near future.
