Long jump legend, Yusuf Alli has showered praise on Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) for coming up with the idea of staging a marathon among journalists in Lagos State.
Sports247.ng reports that Alli is further enchanted that the race, dubbed Lagos Media Marathon, which will hold on May 1, has been thrown open to the general public.
Alli noted that having a road race organised by journalists, named after the media, but not restricted to their members alone, is a very lofty and welcome development for long distance running in the country.
He added that the maiden Lagos Media Marathon adds flesh to the now far-reaching efforts of Lagos State governor, Akinwunmi Ambode that have popularized the marathon culture in The Centre of Excellence.
An excited Alli pointed out: “The media is the fourth estate of the realm because journalists set agenda and we follow.
“The decision to organize a road race, which is open to all, with special prizes for journalists and non-journalists, will make millions of Nigerians embrace the culture of running, I am so happy with the decision.”
“Since Governor Ambode revived the culture of marathon in 2016 with the Lagos City Marathon, there has been an upsurge in the interest in road races. So, with the media coming in now, that will help further.”
