Ozo Running Club: Reshaping Community Bonds Among Igbos in London

With over 300 members, the Ozo Running Club not only promotes physical health but also serves as a cultural hub for young Igbos in London, fostering a sense of community and heritage amidst rising social division.

At London's iconic Hyde Park, a congregation of enthusiastic runners spot each other by their fitted athletic gear on a brisk Saturday morning. Among the mix of individuals stand out Nigerians, predominantly of Igbo descent, participating in the Ozo Running Club—a vibrant initiative aimed at celebrating the rich traditions of one of Nigeria's largest ethnic groups. Co-founders Chibueze Odoemene, Emeka Atumonyogo, and Chigo Ogbonna envisioned this unique space not just for fitness, but as a means for Igbos to connect and rediscover their cultural identity.

In less than three months since its launch, Ozo has already attracted more than 300 members, reflecting a broader global trend of increasing participation in running clubs. Strava, a widely-used running app, reported a 59% rise in club involvement this year, indicating a shift towards community engagement through fitness. For the Ozo runners, the Saturday sessions extend beyond improving endurance; they create an atmosphere where camaraderie flourishes and newcomers easily transition into what feels like a second family.

The energy in the park is palpable as Afrobeats music resonates in the air. Odoemene initiates a traditional Igbo call-and-response, rallying members with "Igbo kwenu!" followed by a resonating response of "Eyy," creating a moment steeped in cultural pride. This spirited interaction is not just a fun exercise; it symbolizes unity, love, and a reminder of shared heritage deeply embedded in the hearts of the Igbos.

The Ozo club serves as an avenue for urban Igbos searching for connections. For Francesca Ngozi Ezennolim, a 21-year-old enthusiast who made a 64km journey from Reading, the motivation lies in community rather than romance. "I don't have a lot of Igbo friends," she shares, expressing hope that the club fills this gap in her social life. Similarly, Jennifer Iwuamadi emphasizes the importance of socializing with fellow Igbos for a sense of belonging.

Despite being one of Nigeria's largest ethnic groups, many Igbos feel their cultural identity is somewhat overshadowed, leading to concerns about potential erosion. A 2006 UNESCO prediction noted the precarious status of the Igbo language, projected to face extinction by 2025. However, recent statistics indicate an increase in the UK Igbo population, sparking renewed motivation among the diaspora to celebrate and share their uniqueness.

While some may question the exclusivity of an Igbo-centered running club, co-founder Atumonyogo clarifies that all are welcome. The club has previously welcomed individuals from various backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment where cultural immersion is encouraged.

Nonetheless, the history of the Igbos is marked by the painful legacy of the Biafran war (1967-70), which is still a sensitive subject. As expressed by author Chinua Achebe, lingering resentments towards Igbos remain, influencing perceptions in Nigeria and beyond. This historical context amplifies the purpose of the Ozo club—a proactive movement to change narratives and increase visibility for Igbo culture.

Club member Uzoma Ehziem, a longtime UK resident, resonates with this sentiment, advocating for greater recognition of Igbo contributions to the Nigerian story, often overshadowed by their Yoruba counterparts in public perception. "When you say you are Nigerian, the question that often follows is, 'Are you Yoruba?'" he remarks, underscoring the need for more representation of Igbo culture.

Beyond running, Ozo organizes monthly activities to enhance collective joy, including karaoke and future galas, enriching the social fabric of the community. As the Saturday sessions conclude and members regroup, Odoemene’s chant once again solidifies their bond, echoing the promise of reconnecting and nurturing friendships rooted in shared history and cultural pride. The Ozo Running Club stands as a testament that fitness catalyzes not just health, but also a vibrant community intertwined with tradition and identity.