The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), in partnership with the state government, has launched the Governor Monday Okpebholo Anti-Drug Abuse Marathon to combat drug abuse and trafficking among young people.
The 3.5km mini-marathon, flagged off on Thursday in Benin City by NDLEA State Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju, is open to public and private secondary school students aged 13 to 17.
Ofoyeju described the initiative as the first of its kind in Nigeria, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda by promoting healthy lifestyles and early intervention against drug abuse.
Themed “Edo Students Running Against Drug Trafficking and Abuse”, the competition offers star prizes of ₦2 million, ₦1.5 million, and ₦1 million for the first, second, and third place winners, respectively. He said the incentives would encourage participation, support educational goals, and help nurture future marathon champions.
“Sports is a positive way to attract students to anti-drug values. While they enjoy the fun, they also gain vital information on the dangers of drug abuse,” Ofoyeju said.
The maiden edition will hold on Saturday, October 4, 2025, for schools in Edo South Senatorial District, starting at Kings Square and ending at Kada Junction along Benin-Sapele Road. The competition will later extend to Edo Central and Edo North.
Ofoyeju added that beyond the prizes, the event aims to strengthen school spirit, encourage community engagement, and build a healthier, more resilient youth population.
Registration is free and open until Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at https://bit.ly/ndleaedo.
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