Kipchumba Shines at 2026 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon admist Global Love Feast
Oru Leonard
Romance met resilience on Valentine’s Day as Kenya’s Ezra Kipchumba Kering powered to victory at the 11th edition of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon on Saturday, 14 February 2026.
Kipchumba produced a commanding performance, breaking away in the closing stages to cross the finish line at Eko Atlantic City in 2:11:55. His effort earned him the $50,000 winner’s purse and further cemented his reputation among Africa’s elite marathoners.
The men’s race delivered a dramatic sprint to the podium, with Uganda’s Lomoi Samuel clocking 2:11:59 for second place. Fellow Ugandan Namutala Kephar Lumbasi secured third in 2:12:25, rounding off a tightly contested battle that kept spectators on edge until the final stretch.
Organised by Nilayo Sports Management Limited and spearheaded by Managing Director Yetunde Olopade, the Gold Label race continues to elevate long-distance running standards across the continent.
In the women’s event, Ethiopia’s Dinke Meseret Meleka surged to victory with a time of 2:37:36. Kenya’s Daniel Flomena Cheyech followed closely in 2:37:43, while Ethiopia’s Getaw Wgagen Zewdalem claimed third place in 2:38:59.
With another memorable edition concluded, the marathon once again demonstrated why it remains one of Africa’s premier road racing spectacles, drawing top-tier talent and thrilling performances year after year.
