Age, as they say, is just a number, and 61-year-old Edeh Paul just gave the phrase a powerful new meaning in Makurdi. The veteran vulcaniser outpaced a competitive field to emerge victorious in a grueling 11.5-kilometer trek-a-thon, leaving younger participants in his wake and capturing the hearts of spectators along the route.
The endurance test was put together by the Tito Group of Companies to mark a dual celebration: Nigeria’s Independence Day and the United Nations International Day of Older Persons. For Paul, crossing the finish line in under two hours wasn’t just a physical triumph; it was a life-changing moment. He walked away with a cash prize of N500,000, which he immediately noted will go right back into his hustle, helping him upgrade his vulcanising equipment and expand his daily operations.
Speaking after catching his breath, a beaming Paul could barely contain his excitement. He credited his victory to sheer determination and a lifestyle built on hard work, while also shouting out the organizers. As a dedicated consumer of Tito products, he promised that his loyalty to the brand is now stronger than ever.
The driving force behind the event, Chief Asiwaju Isaac Akinkunmi, who serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Tito Group, shed light on the deeper meaning behind the competition. He emphasized that the initiative was deliberately crafted to honor senior citizens, advocate for healthy living, and celebrate the foundational roles older generations have played in building the nation. Honoring them during Independence celebrations, he noted, is a fitting tribute to those who witnessed and weathered the era of colonialism to lay the groundwork for Nigeria’s economy.
The podium glory wasn’t limited to the champion alone. Paul Ejedike and Chubiyo Richard secured the first and second runner-up spots, respectively, earning cash rewards alongside the standout competitors in the women’s division. In true festive spirit, the organizers ensured that no participant left empty-handed, doling out consolation prizes to everyone who crossed the starting line and completed the demanding trek.
