The recently concluded Skate-a-Thon Nigeria, hailed as Africa’s largest skating festival, culminated in a triumphant awards ceremony where winners across various categories received a total of ₦8.6 million in cash prizes. Held in Calabar, Cross River State, the competition showcased the burgeoning talent within the Nigerian skating community and served as a platform for both national and international exposure. This year’s edition, the second since its inception, featured a challenging 42km Skating Marathon for men, a 21km Skating Race for women, and exhilarating Inline Hockey matches, attracting participants from across the nation. The event’s success underscores the growing popularity of roller sports in Nigeria and the potential of sports tourism to drive economic and social development within the region.
The organizer of the event, Daniel Damola, expressed profound gratitude to the participants, the supportive community of Cross River State, and the collaborative efforts that contributed to the event’s success. He acknowledged the inevitable hurdles encountered in organizing such a large-scale competition but emphasized the overall positive outcome. Looking ahead to the future, Damola reaffirmed his commitment to expanding the Skate-a-Thon’s reach and impact, envisioning an even grander spectacle for the 2026 edition. He emphasized the event’s dual purpose, serving not only as a high-level sporting competition but also as a dynamic platform for promoting tourism, potentially showcasing Cross River State and Nigeria on a global stage. This vision aligns with the increasing recognition of sports as a powerful tool for economic growth and international visibility.
Damola’s appreciation extended to Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State for his instrumental role in facilitating the event. The Governor’s support, both in terms of resources and creating a conducive environment, was acknowledged as crucial to the Skate-a-Thon’s success. This collaboration between event organizers and local government highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in fostering sporting initiatives and leveraging them for broader societal benefit. The Skate-a-Thon’s impact goes beyond simply crowning champions; it creates opportunities for athletes to hone their skills, gain recognition, and contribute to the development of roller sports within Nigeria, positioning the country as a continental leader in the field.
The event attracted a diverse range of participants from across Nigeria, further demonstrating the widespread appeal of roller sports. Notably, a contingent of athletes from Lagos State, sponsored by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, participated in the international event, showcasing the collaborative spirit and inter-state support for the burgeoning skating scene. This participation highlights the growing recognition of skateboarding as a legitimate sporting pursuit, moving beyond recreational activity to a competitive arena with national representation. The inclusion of skateboarding in the Olympic Games has undoubtedly contributed to this shift in perception, inspiring greater participation and investment in the sport.
The Skate-a-Thon’s success story is a testament to the transformative potential of sports tourism. By attracting athletes, spectators, and media attention, the event generates economic activity, boosts local businesses, and creates a vibrant atmosphere within the host community. Beyond the immediate economic benefits, the event also contributes to the social fabric of Cross River State, fostering a sense of community pride, promoting healthy lifestyles, and providing opportunities for young people to engage in positive activities. The Skate-a-Thon, therefore, serves as a model for how sporting events can be leveraged to achieve broader developmental goals.
Looking ahead, the organizers envision the Skate-a-Thon evolving into a globally recognized event, attracting participants and spectators from around the world. This ambition reflects the increasing globalization of sports and the potential for niche sports like skateboarding to gain international recognition. By continuing to invest in the event’s growth, promoting its unique blend of sports and tourism, and fostering partnerships with both public and private sectors, the Skate-a-Thon is poised to become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s sporting landscape and a powerful driver of social and economic development in Cross River State. The event’s success underscores the importance of supporting grassroots sporting initiatives and recognizing the transformative power of sports to inspire individuals, communities, and nations.
