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Worried and pained by the “neglect, lack of development and abject poverty” of Oloibiri community in Ogbia local government area of Bayelsa where oil was first discovered in 1958, an annual marathon, tagged ‘Oloibiri-Marathon Race’, is billed to hold in remembrance.
According to project coordinator of Mahogany Twenty First Concept, Mr. Eyinimi Omorozi, the marathon which will be the first of its kind to hold in this part of the country, will attract local and international athletes to participate in any of the three categories – 5km, 10km and the main 21km race.
Omorozi disclosed that, the event is in collaboration with partners and stakeholders, adding that the Oloibiri – Marathon Race is aimed at not only promoting sports, but also at talent development with its socio-economic benefits.
According to the promoter, ‘Oloibiri – Marathon Race’ will serve as a strategic platform to give national and international recognition and visibility to Oloibiri in the attempt to promote and preserve for posterity the Oloibiri national historical heritage that has long been abandoned, neglected and seemingly forgotten.
“Designed as an annual international half-marathon event, the brand that will attract the participation of amateur and professional athletes from within and outside Nigeria.
“The Oloibiri -Marathon race is also to provide a platform for critical stakeholders – state and federal government agencies and international oil and gas companies, athletics, associations, the media to freely interact and explore partnerships and collaboration.
“Key facilitators and stakeholders expected to participate in the classic event include, the Bayelsa State Government, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Petroleum Development Trust Fund (PDFT) and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB),” he said.
