By Ikome Christie-Noella Eposi
The town of Tiko witnessed an atmosphere of excitement, unity and celebration on Saturday, May 16, 2026, as hundreds of residents turned out massively for the maiden edition of the Best Peace and Unity Marathon, an initiative championed by Senior Notable of the Mutengene Second Class Chiefdom, Eng. Esunge John Motova. The sporting event, which took place under the theme “Running Together to Promote Peace, Unity and Hope,” brought together youths, sports lovers, traditional authorities and administrative officials in a remarkable display of social cohesion and patriotism ahead of Cameroon’s 54th National Day celebrations.
The marathon, organized under the patronage of the Subdivisional Officer for Tiko, Nokuri Samuel, began at the Tiko Council Roundabout and stretched through the town before returning to the starting point. The event transformed the Tiko Council Esplanade into a vibrant scene filled with colour, cheers and enthusiasm as participants and supporters rallied around a cause aimed at promoting peace and community development through sports.
Speaking to the press during the event, Eng. Esunge John, who doubles as President of The Best Team, described the marathon as a strategic initiative intended to strengthen unity among the population while encouraging young people to embrace sporting activities beyond football. He disclosed that the idea was born from the realization that many talented youths in Tiko lacked opportunities to participate in other sporting disciplines.
“We have stood stagnant for too long with only football dominating sports in Tiko. We thought it wise to create another avenue where those who cannot play football can equally participate and showcase their talents through athletics,” Eng. Esunge explained.
He further emphasized that the marathon was not merely a one-time event but the beginning of a long-term vision aimed at transforming sports culture within the municipality. According to him, his group collaborated with several partners and sponsors to ensure the success of the maiden edition, while expressing gratitude to the administrative authorities and supporters who contributed to the realization of the project.
Eng. Esunge also highlighted his longstanding commitment to youth empowerment and sports development in Tiko, revealing that The Best Team has over the years supported female football competitions in Upper Costain and other community sporting initiatives. He reiterated that the group remains dedicated to standing beside the youths and promoting activities capable of inspiring hope and unity.
“Our objective is to work with the people of Tiko through sports. We have always supported sporting initiatives, especially among young people, and we will continue to do so because sports unite communities and keep youths focused,” he stated.
The initiative received widespread commendation from community leaders and dignitaries present at the event. Senator Lionel Papinatou Fonderson praised the organizers for creating an activity capable of promoting cohesion and peaceful coexistence among the people of Tiko. According to the senator, sports remain one of the strongest instruments for bringing communities together and encouraging positive youth participation.
“We can see that young people are highly interested in such activities. Every effort that brings them together in healthy competition is beneficial to society,” Senator Papinatou remarked, while encouraging the winners to aspire toward national and international competitions.
Also appreciating the winners was the Mayor of the Tiko Council, HRH Chief Peter Ikome Mesoso III. He supported them financially and applauded the initiative by Eng. Esunge. Chief Mesoso III reiterated his support for such initiatives aimed at promoting peace and unity through sports in his municipality
The marathon ended with impressive performances from participants across both male and female categories. In the male category, Mofor Jeremiah emerged winner and received a cash prize of 100,000 FCFA, alongside a trophy and medal. Kang Godlove Ngong and Nembo Olando Cha finished second and third respectively. In the female category, Sarah Liengu Emmanuelle claimed first position with a cash prize of 100,000 FCFA, a trophy and medal, while Esake Rejoice and Ebob Emilia secured second and third positions respectively.
As the curtains fell on the successful maiden edition of the Best Peace and Unity Marathon, many observers described the initiative as a bold step toward reviving community sports in Tiko. Above all, the event firmly projected Eng. Esunge John as a visionary community leader committed to promoting peace, unity and youth empowerment through meaningful grassroots initiatives.