From Moshood Karim
The push to position Benin City as a hub for elite sporting events gained fresh momentum at the weekend as Zuid Sports International, organisers of the Benin City Marathon, secured the backing of Senator Neda Imasuen ahead of the 2026 edition.
The sports outfit made this known during a courtesy visit to the lawmaker representing Edo South Senatorial District, where the Chairman of the Marathon’s Organising Committee, Paul Ojeisekhoba formally sought legislative and institutional support for the successful staging of the race.
In his response, Imasuen pledged full support for the initiative, expressing enthusiasm over the growing profile of sporting activities within the district. He noted that sports development remains a strategic tool for youth engagement and community cohesion.
The senator referenced the successful debut of the Benin Unity Cup last year, which he principally sponsored, as a demonstration of his unwavering commitment to grassroots sports development.
He assured the organisers of his readiness to partner with credible organisations to elevate Edo South’s sporting calendar and create opportunities for young talents.
The 2026 Benin City Marathon is scheduled to hold on Saturday, April 4, and is expected to attract athletes, enthusiasts and stakeholders from across the country and beyond.
