Success Ayagwa, a 400-level student at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), Kaduna, ran an impressive 64 kilometers to honor Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary.
The long-distance run took place within the Nigerian Air Force Base in Kaduna, starting at 5 a.m. and concluding at 10 a.m. on Tuesday.
“I wanted to showcase both my love for Nigeria and my talent in long-distance running,” Success shared with journalists after completing the run.
He acknowledged the difficulty of running for five hours but expressed confidence in his perseverance. “It was tough, but I knew that with determination, I could achieve it,” he said. This marks the second year in a row that Success has celebrated Nigeria’s Independence through running, having completed a 63-kilometer run last year.
Sergeant Wayo Emmanuel, Success’s coach and Chief Instructor at AFIT’s Office of the Director of Sports, discovered his talent two years ago. Since then, under Emmanuel’s mentorship, Success has made remarkable progress in his athletic journey.
“Success placed 7th in last year’s Okpekpe road race. With his determination and age on his side, I believe he has great potential to reach his goals,” Emmanuel remarked.
Wing Commander Bassey Okon, AFIT’s Director of Public Relations, commended Success for his endurance and encouraged Nigerians to unite with the government in pursuing national greatness.
“If our youth adopt this kind of mindset, Nigeria has a bright future. AFIT’s commandant, Air Vice Marshal Saleh Rabe, has provided leadership that motivates students to excel in all areas of life,” Okon said.
He further emphasized that Success’s accomplishment is a reflection of AFIT’s dedication to nurturing exceptional talent.
