In the heart of London’s Hyde Park, a vibrant scene unfolds every Saturday morning. At 11:00 am, a diverse group of runners gathers near a set of benches, uniting under a shared identity and purpose. While their appearances vary—some tall and lean, others broad and sturdy—many share a unique cultural bond: they are Nigerians of Igbo heritage.
This is the Ozo Running Club, a community initiative founded by three Igbo expatriates—Chibueze Odoemene, Emeka Atumonyogo, and Chigo Ogbonna. Established less than three months ago, the club already boasts over 300 members, a testament to its relevance and appeal in fostering community through culture and fitness.
Building Bonds Through Culture
“Our goal was to create a space where young Igbo people could connect and reconnect to their culture,” said Odoemene. The weekly runs are not merely about fitness; they are about forging bonds, celebrating Igbo heritage, and providing a sense of belonging to members of the diaspora.
Before each run, the group partakes in a traditional Igbo chant. “Igbo kwenu!” Odoemene shouts, prompting a resonant “Eyy” from the crowd. The call-and-response ritual sets the tone for the day, reminding participants of their shared roots.
“The chant is a call for unity, community, and love among all Igbo people,” Odoemene explained.
More Than Just Running
Ozo is not solely for Igbo participants. “You don’t have to be Igbo to join,” said Atumonyogo, emphasizing the club’s inclusive spirit. Members hail from various backgrounds, including Iran, Italy, and the Caribbean, drawn by the club’s welcoming atmosphere and the opportunity to learn about Igbo culture.
In addition to weekly runs, the club organizes social outings such as karaoke, dodgeball sessions, and an upcoming Igbo gala planned for next year.
For Francesca Ngozi Ezennolim, a 21-year-old who travels from Reading to join the runs, the club fills a gap in her life. “I don’t have many Igbo friends. This is a chance to connect with my people,” she said.
Similarly, Jennifer Iwuamadi, 23, values the opportunity to socialize and network. “It’s so important to have a space like this to bond with our brothers and sisters,” she said.
Preserving Identity Amid Challenges
The formation of the Ozo Running Club also speaks to broader concerns about cultural preservation. While Igbo people are one of Nigeria’s largest ethnic groups, their language and culture are at risk. In 2006, UNESCO warned that the Igbo language could become extinct by 2025.
Although the Igbo population in the UK has grown from 8,000 to 11,000 over the past decade, many young Igbos feel disconnected from their roots.
“When people think about Nigerians, they often think of Yoruba culture. But Nigeria is made up of many pieces, and Igbo culture deserves its spotlight,” Odoemene said.
The club’s emphasis on cultural pride serves as a counter-narrative to the historical marginalization of Igbos, stemming from events like the 1967-70 Biafran War, which claimed over a million lives.
A Growing Community
Image source, Danai Nesta Kupemba / BBC
Spontaneous dance breaks occur during the runs
As the Saturday run concludes, the runners reconvene, exchanging phone numbers and catching up with old and new friends. For many, the Ozo Running Club is more than a fitness group—it’s a family.
With plans for expansion and a calendar filled with cultural and social events, the Ozo Running Club is not just jogging memories of Igbo heritage but ensuring its continuity for generations to come.
To learn more about the Ozo Running Club, visit their social media channels or join them at Hyde Park next Saturday.
For more community stories, visit Naija UK Connect.
