ONDO AUTO RALLY 2025: A SPECTACULAR GATHERING OF SKILLS, SPEED AND A CELEBRATION OF CULTURE

The 8th Edition of the Ondo Auto Rally, held in Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, Nigeria, was a resounding success, solidifying its position as the BIGGEST and BEST Auto Racing Destination Event in Africa. The event kicked off with a Ceremony at the Government House in Alagbaka Akure, where the Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency Lucky Aiyedatiwa, was on ground to flagged off the Rally.

The Governor welcomes all the participants, organizers, and spectators to the Sunshine State and also to the Ondo Auto Rally 2025.

Highlighting the event’s significance for the state’s tourism and economic development. The Governor expresses gratitude to the organizers, sponsors, and participants for their efforts and contributions to the event’s success annually.

The Governor emphasized the Rally’s impact on promoting sports development, tourism, and economic growth in Ondo State.

“The Ondo Auto Rally 2025 kicked off with great fanfare, featuring top racing talent and a festival atmosphere. Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa officially flagged off the event, highlighting its significance for the state’s tourism and economic development. The rally promises to be an exciting spectacle, with diverse racing categories and a platform for businesses to showcase their products and services.”

The Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s in his keynote address he said “The Ondo Auto Rally 2025 is a testament to our state’s Commitment to promoting sports development and tourism, “I urge all participants to prioritize safety and sportsmanship, showcasing the best of Nigerian motorsport.
He added that “This event is a celebration of speed, skill, and symmetry, and I wish all participants a thrilling experience.”

The Governor expressed his gratitude to Mr. Adeoye Ojuoko, the Founder/President of Work and Play Promotions for his consistency and unwavering Commitment and Dedication to the event over the past eight years. He noted that the event has transformed from a humble beginning to a significant highlight on the global Motorsports calendar. “This is just the beginning,” the Governor stated, emphasizing the potential for growth in motor racing as a sport in Nigeria.

The Governor urged all participants to adhere to the rules and regulations of the event, underscoring the importance of safety and fair competition. His call for discipline resonated with the audience, setting a tone of respect for the sport and its regulations.

Mr. Adeoye Ojuoko, the Founder President Work and Play promotions, welcomed the Governor, and he expressed his appreciation for the Governor’s continued support, noting that this was the third time the Governor had flagged off the event. He recognized the significance of such high-level endorsement in promoting motorsport in the region.

Chief Micheal Ade.Ojo and his beautiful amiable wife was on ground as Chief Host to receive all and sundry to Ilara mokin where other special guests present were seated . The Chairman, All Local government council in the state accompanied by other Chairmen from that Local government council were also present.
Mr Larry Bakare one of promoters of the event and Team owner who flew in from the United Kingdom said he is impressed with the consistency of the event. He however advised that opportunity be given to raise more amateur drivers who will inturn become professional in the nearest future.

The event also saw warm greetings extended to the Governor from Mr. Omololu Adegbenro, the Registrar of Elizade University, who acknowledged the positive impact of the rally on the local community.

Mrs. Julie Chi-Nwaoha, Director Event Management Work and Play Promotions, owners of the ONDO Auto Rally expressed the intention of the organization, saying that Work and Play Promotions has always worked in alliance to encourage safety and skill development while providing business opportunities for all in the state.

As the Rally commenced to its traditional venue in Ilara-Mokin, the atmosphere was electrifying. The Nigerian Police opened the event with the National Anthem, followed by the Ondo State anthem. The energy in the air was infectious, as families, friends, children, and motorsport enthusiasts gathered to witness the thrilling spectacle.

The Rally featured a variety of events, which includes Xcart race a high-speed competition that tested drivers’ skills and pushed vehicles to their limits.
The OFF-ROAD BIKERS attacks a heart-pumping race that showcased riders’ agility and bravery as they navigated challenging terrain of the Smoking Hills Racing Track, followed by the Motorbikes High-performance competition that thrilled the crowd with their speed and agility plus the Super Celebrities Bikers for Renowned bikers who showcased their power , skills and performance to entertained the audience.
Another dynamic race was the Tricycle riders, these are Talented riders who performed impressive stunts and tricks to the admiration of the crowd
The topping was the Rally drivers known for their frills and thrills , the experienced drivers who accelerated in high-speed racing contest, showcasing their skills and precision.
And lastly the Drifters , these are Skilled drivers who performed precision drifting, thrilling the crowd with their unbelievable skills and expertise.
Not forgetting the newly introduced Professional Bicycle Stunt Riders, young talented riders who performed death-defying stunts, entertaining the audience with their bravery and skill.

The presence of cultural groups, along with women dressed in traditional attire, added a rich cultural dimension to the event, showcasing the local heritage that is integral to the identity of Ilara-Mokin. Schools from the region participated in the festivities, contributing to the lively atmosphere that enveloped Ilara-Mokin,plus the dazzling dancing steps if the cheerleaders all adding to the fun-filled Day.

For many attendees, the rally was an experience that left a lasting impression. Oreoluwa Oguntade who attended the event for the first time was very excited and encouraged to want to participate next year.

The Olakunle Family from Igbaraoke were very happy, saying it was indeed a wonderful and fulfilling day watching the thrilling races together, it’s was more of a family reunion for them.

The Ondo Auto Rally 2025 was a spectacular celebration of speed, skill and culture celebration .

The event showcased the best of motorsports in Nigeria, bringing together thousands of enthusiasts and industry stakeholders. With its legacy of excellence and commitment to innovation, the Ondo Auto Rally is poised to continue as a major Motorsports Racing Destination event on in Africa.