Akeredolu, SMT Volvo, Toyota sign for Ondo auto rally

The Governor Rotimi Akeredolu-led government is leading other corporate institutions to drive support for the third edition of the Ondo state auto rally.

The rally is scheduled for November 8 and 9 in Ilara-Mokin near Akure, the state capital.

Supporters of the event also include Toyota, SMT Volvo, Elizade, JAC, ONDIPA, Meristem, Airtel, Monster Energy, Signatures and other service partners.

Adeoye Ojuoko, promoter of work and play, said Akeredolu had reaffirmed that his government would give full support to the rally.

“We are very happy for the government support which we believe would raise tourism awareness in the state, stimulate commercial activities during the period and also hold potential for encouraging investors to the state,” Ojuoko said.

“The governor demonstrated his belief by partaking in a two-way drag race last year with the Founder of Elizade Nigeria Limited, Chief Michael Ade Ojo as a major highlight.”

Over 200 motorsports athletes and enthusiasts are expected across the country and from international communities for the event expected to be graced by Babatunde Fashola, minister of works and housing.

It would run side-by-side with the 16th Wuraola Memorial Golf Tournament at the Smokin’ Hills Golf Resort, Ilara-Mokin, where the off road and the on-road races would also be held.

This year’s rally is the third to be hosted in Ondo state. Ogun and Kebbi states have hosted races in the past while Lagos, Enugu and Gombe are being proposed for subsequent hosting.

Ojuoko also said the event would align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6.3.2 of Clean Water and Sanitation and themed: ‘Race for Freshwater Quality’.

The campaign is managed by Water Corridor International to promote the achievement of the goal in the host community.

There is also a side challenge of Idanre Hill Hiking in conjunction with Nigeria Travel week in the early hours of Friday, before the drifting session sets off.

The hiking is a competition for contestants who clock the fastest time to climb the 660 steps of the hill.