James completed the gruelling race in just 31 minutes and 8 seconds, securing not only the title but also a substantial cash prize of N1,000,000.

In the fiercely competitive field, Stephen Joshua trailed closely, finishing just 22 seconds behind James and earning N750,000 for his remarkable effort.

The first edition’s indigenous winner, Emmanuel Gyang, came third in 32 minutes 7 second to win N500,000.

However, it was the revelation of young James that stirred admiration at the event, and the Plateau-born athlete did not shy away from addressing the media after his historic win.

When asked about his emotions on becoming the first Nigerian to cross the finish line, James expressed gratitude but did not mince words in highlighting the challenges faced by Nigerian athletes.

“It’s not easy. I feel tired, and I thank God for winning this race,” James said. “I will beat these Kenyans next time.”

“We are training harder than them, but it’s because we are not getting sponsors. No sponsors to support us, that is why these Kenyans keep winning. If Nigeria supports us in training, we will beat Kenyans.”

“Yes, I will defend my country in the future. This is my first time winning this race. The last time, I came seventh, but today I am first,” James asserted, leaving no doubt about his ambition to continue making strides in the world of long-distance running.

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In a record-breaking spectacle, Peter Mwaniki of Kenya etched his name in history by setting a new course record in Abeokuta, completing the race in a remarkable 28 minutes and 14 seconds.

This feat erased the previous record of 28 minutes and 16 seconds, held by compatriot Biwott Kemboi since the maiden edition in 2019. It earned Mwaniki the coveted winner’s prize of $5,000.

Not to be outdone, Kenyan runner Shamila Kipsirir also left an indelible mark in the women’s category, smashing the existing record with her lightning-quick time of 32 minutes and 22 seconds.

Her impressive run eclipsed the former record of 33 minutes and 43 seconds, set by Ethiopia’s Tadu Nare in 2019. Kipsirir was duly rewarded with a $5,000 prize for her exceptional achievement.

In a clean sweep for Kenya, the men’s elite category saw Kipyeo Kenedy securing the second position in 29 minutes 29 seconds, claiming a prize of $3,000, while Kibii Frederick‘s finishing time of 30 minutes 21 seconds earned him the third spot and a prize of $1,000.

The 2023 Lotus Bank Abeokuta 10KM Race not only celebrated Kenyan dominance but also shone a spotlight on the promising talents emerging from Nigeria, setting the stage for an exciting future in long-distance running.

On the Nigerian front, Plateau State’s Francis James emerged as a rising star, clinching victory in the Nigerian elite class with an impressive time of 31 minutes and 8 seconds.

Stephen Joshua Dalyop of Plateau State secured the second position in 31 minutes 30 seconds, while another Plateau native, Emmanuel Gyang, displayed remarkable determination to take the third spot in 32 minutes 7 seconds.

In the women’s elite class, Kenya’s Viola Sepkosgei showcased her prowess with a time of 34 minutes and 34 seconds, earning her the silver medal.

Nigeria’s Patience Dalyop took third overall and became the first Nigerian woman to cross the finish line, posting a time of 36 minutes and 31 seconds.

Deborah Pam Badung followed closely with a time of 37 minutes and 2 seconds, while Deborah Abiye David completed the lineup with a time of 37 minutes and 31 seconds.

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