Enugu Ready to Host 2nd International Marathon as Athletes Arrive for August 29 Race
Oru Leonard
Enugu is set to host the second edition of the Enugu City International Marathon on August 29, 2026, with the state government and organizers, Nilayo Sports Management, announcing that final preparations for the international-standard race have been concluded.
The marathon, backed by the Enugu State Government and organized by Nilayo Sports Management, is expected to attract elite and recreational athletes from across Nigeria, Africa and the diaspora, further positioning the Coal City as a major destination for sports, tourism and business.
The organizing committee said key arrangements covering logistics, route certification, medical services, water stations, traffic management and security along the race routes had been finalized.
“The city is fully ready. Every agency is working in sync to ensure the safety of athletes, spectators, and visitors,” the committee said.
The event is also generating increased economic activity, with hotels, transport operators and other local businesses recording higher bookings and patronage ahead of race week.
Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management, Mrs Yetunde Olopade, expressed satisfaction with the response from athletes, saying registration had exceeded expectations.
“I am really impressed with the registration turnout. Both local and international athletes and elite athletes have been trooping out to register for this Marathon and I must say I am impressed,” Olopade said.
She urged young and talented athletes from the South-East and South-South regions to seize the opportunity to participate, noting that registration was still ongoing.
The 42km Elite Marathon will be flagged off at 6:30 a.m. from ShopRite on Abakaliki Road, with the route taking participants through major landmarks across Enugu.
The 10km Fun Run will commence at 8:30 a.m. from Chris Tee Petrol Station on CIC Road and terminate at Opara Square by 12:30 p.m.
Substantial cash prizes have also been set aside for top finishers in the male and female elite categories.
With preparations now at an advanced stage, organizers said the marathon is expected to combine elite sporting competition with opportunities for tourism, youth development, hospitality and business growth.
The Enugu City International Marathon is gradually emerging as a flagship annual sporting event, with organizers and the state government seeking to use the platform to strengthen Enugu’s profile as a sports and tourism destination in the South-East.
