Specially located in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, Plateau State is often celebrated for its exceptional landscapes, its cool climate, and its beautiful diverse cultures. But beyond the rocky hills and fertile valleys lies a powerhouse of athletic talents who have repeatedly defied all odds and stereotypes. Plateau’s athletes possess great resilience, determination, and excellence. These athletes are really turning local tracks into launchpads for national and international glory. From Inter House competitions sprints in school to marathon triumphs, the state’s sporting heroes in Athletics; track and field, cross-country, and long-distance running all tell us stories of perseverance and determination that can inspire generations.
At the heart of this beautiful narrative is Shehu Muazu Adamu, a homegrown hero from Pankshin Local Government Area, whose journey is a great example of the never yielding spirit of Plateau athletes. Born on May 11, 1988, Shehu’s passion for Athletics ignited as he shared in a recent interview with Inside Plateau, back in Central Primary School Pankshin, where his thrilling speed first captured the minds of those around him. Transitioning to Government Secondary School (GSS) Bet Pankshin, Shehu dominated Inter-House Competitions, winning every race and discovering his biggest asset; endurance. This endurance would to a great extent define his beautiful career. The solid foundation in grassroots athletics which is common in Plateau’s schools, propelled him into professional running.
Shehu’s Achievements and Accolades Shehu’s numerous achievements throughout his career shows his resilience amid the challenges he and other Athletes faced like limited resources and intense competition. He has specialized in long-distance , including the 10,000m, 5,000m, 1,500m, half marathons, and full marathons. Below are some of his notable triumphs:
i. Shehu Adamu Muazu emerged as the first Nigerian to cross the finish line at the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon in 2022, earning N1 million for his efforts. However in 2023, he surpassed his goal of a top-10 finish, finishing as the second Nigerian; and again in 2024 he, traveled from Plateau State to claim the honor once more, finishing with a personal best marathon time of 2:27:36.
ii. National Sports Festival in Lagos 2012 Shehu representated Plateau State and got the Silver Medal
iii. In the Police Marathon in 2013, Shehu got the bronze medal and won his first big money in Athletics and that only pushed him harder. And he’s always on the medal table. Winning medals in every competition he participated in.
iv. After participating in Agalaga 2012, Plateau State’s Sports Council integrated him into the set up. He signed a contract with them and started representing the state in the National competitions sports competitions including marathons and other long distance races.
v. Winner of the inaugural Tito Makurdi Marathon in 2020. vi. Second place in the Half-marathon of the CAA Region II championships in Zaria in 2021.
vii. Winner of the inaugural MASA Isonyin Half Marathon in 2022.
viii. Second place in the Agbokim Falls Green Marathon in 2024.
These victories aren’t just personal triumphs; they symbolize Plateau’s ability to produce world-class athletes despite narratives of instability. Shehu’s story resonates with the state’s youth, showing that with grit, even runners from remote areas like Pankshin can outpace expectations and contribute to Nigeria’s athletic legacy.
But Shehu is far from alone. Plateau State has birthed numerous athletes who’ve made the state proud across various levels, from national marathons to emerging track stars.
Deborah Pam, is another Plateau native, who has dominated the Ibadan City Marathon’s (female category), securing four consecutive wins in the 42km race by 2019, showcasing the endurance and stamina that our athletes posses due to the state’s high-altitude terrain.
Gyang Boyi Nyango (also known as Nyango Gyang) has been a sensation, and he came first place in the maiden Rivers State Marathon in 2024, outrunning Kenyan competitors. At the Anambra State Marathon in 2024; he finished as the top Nigerian (eighth overall) in the 2025 Lagos City Marathon with a time of 2:25 and his feats underscore Plateau Athletes’ prowess in long-distance events, where the cool, hilly environment provides natural training advantages.
Emerging talents are also shining bright in the National Scene. An 18-year-old Francis James from Plateau, won the Abeokuta 10km Race, proving the state’s Next Generation of Athletes are on the right track.
At the MTN CHAMPS in Jos, the first major track-centered event in the state, Yusuf Mohammed earned the title of “Fastest Man in Jos” in 2024, sprinting to victory and hinting at future Olympic potential.
Even the historical figures for instance Gideon Hagack from Pankshin, who won the Great North Run in 2001, further adds depth to Plateau’s athletic tapestry, though his career faced controversies.
Beyond pure athletics, Plateau State’s influence extends to other sports, with football icons like Mikel John Obi and Ahmed Musa—both born in Jos, carrying the state’s pride on global stages. These athletes’ successes are largely credited to Plateau State’s unique ecosystem: the high-altitude training grounds like the Jos Plateau, Pankshin Hill Top, the hilly tracks, community-driven sports programs, and our strong cultural emphasis on resilience. Events like the Jos Cross Country Race attract top Nigerian elites, while other initiatives such as MTN CHAMPS, which brought together 1,450 athletes in 2024.
In a state where people are quick to talk about her challenges, athletics serves as a beacon of hope, and it proves that Plateau’s true story is one of triumph, unity, and lots of untapped potentials. As Shehu Muazu Adamu continues to lace up his shoes, he and his fellow athletes remind us: the Home of Peace and Tourism is also the home of champions