*As game set to commence July 30 in Warri
The member Representing Warri Federal Constituency at the Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Chief Dr. Thomas Ereyitomi JP has been presented with the lightening Torch of the first ever mangrove Marathon Race in Nigeria scheduled to hold in Warri.
Chief Dr. Ereyitomi who was delighted for the historic Marathon race to be hosted in Warri, under his federal constituency will Friday July 29 present the game Torch to the Olu of Warri, His Imperial Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse iii along side with the members of the organisers of the Marathon game.
Hon. Ereyitomi during the Marathon race Torch lighting presentation highlighted the importance of protecting the mangrove ecosystem because the mangrove is extremely important to mankind, he urged critical stakeholders to join in safeguarding the mangrove ecosystem in order to pass it to the next generation.
Rep Ereyitomi expressed support for the event, stressing that the game will serve as a wakeup call to the people in the mangrove area as well boost the mangrove ecosystem system tourism and add to the economy.
Dr. Ereyitomi assured of sponsoring the 20 prize winners to be given at the event on Saturday July 30, 2022.
The Local Organizing Committee members of the Mangrove Marathon-WARRI 2022, Jerry Chidi and Henry Erikowa, disclosed that the novel Marathon is a 10km Awareness Run/Fun Walk to raise awareness for the Conservation, Protection and Restoration of the Mangrove Ecosystems in Nigeria, noting that Nigeria has the largest Mangrove Ecosystem in Africa and the fourth largest in the world.
The Mangrove Marathon LOC organizers said the Ecosystem is home to countless species of flora and fauna, providing forestry, food and sustenance to millions in Nigeria and in the gulf of Guinea as well mitigates the effects of climate change.
According to them, “The
mangrove forest faces unprecedented threats arising from anthropogenic activities. Mangrove Marathon will
therefore provide the platform for raising awareness for Mangrove Conservation and Restoration.
“Furthermore, it will positively engage our youths and promote peace building”. They stated.
Other special guests of honour expected for the event include the Minister of Environment, Dr. Mohammed Abdullahi, Minister of State Niger Delta, Barr. Sharon Ikeazor and other notable dignitaries.
