Kenya’s Edwin Kipyego, Ethiopia’s Zenebe Aberu Win Enugu City International Marathon
Oru Leonard
Over 3,000 runners participate as Coal City hosts colourful 2nd edition
ENUGU, August 29, 2026 — Kenya’s Edwin Kipyego and Ethiopia’s Zenebe Aberu have emerged winners of the men’s and women’s elite 42-kilometre races respectively at the second edition of the Enugu City International Marathon.
The event, organised by the Enugu State Government in partnership with Nilayo Sports Management, attracted more than 3,000 athletes, spectators and running enthusiasts to the streets of Enugu on Saturday.
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) provided technical support for the competition.
Kipyego produced a strong finish to win the men’s elite 42KM race in 2:20:38, after making his decisive move at the 37KM mark to break away from a group of four leading runners.
He received a $15,000 prize, a gold medal and the title of the second Enugu City International Marathon 42KM champion.
Ethiopia’s Habtamu Girma finished second in 2:23:39, while compatriot Shiferaw Daltiemayu placed third in 2:23:41.
In the women’s elite 42KM race, Ethiopia’s Zenebe Aberu claimed the overall title, further underlining the growing international appeal of the Enugu marathon.
The 42KM race was flagged off at 6:30am at Shoprite on Abakaliki Road by Enugu State Governor, Dr Peter Mbah. The route took athletes through parts of Independence Layout, Okpara Avenue and Nike Lake Road before the finish at Mike Okpara Square.
Speaking after his victory, Kipyego described the course as challenging but rewarding.
“This was a tough but beautiful course. The hills tested us, but the people of Enugu carried us with their cheers. I will definitely return next year.”
The 10KM race, which was designed to encourage mass participation and identify emerging Nigerian road-running talents, also produced impressive performances from home athletes.
Nigeria’s Gang James Boyi won the men’s 10KM race in 29:59.00, while Obadih Vivian claimed the women’s title in 35:13.09.
Boyi made his decisive move with about three kilometres remaining and held on to win the ₦3 million top prize.
Vivian also expressed delight at winning in front of a home crowd.
“Running and winning in my city is a dream. The organisation was excellent and I’m proud to be part of history.”
Davwi Gyang and Mwantiyi Teyei finished second in the men’s and women’s categories respectively, while Pam Joshua and Danjuma Agnes placed third.
The 10KM race was flagged off at 8:30am at Chris Tee Petrol Station on CIC Road.
Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management, Mrs Yetunde Olopade, described the competition as a world-class event, commending the organisers and the Enugu State Government for delivering a professionally managed race.
“Enugu has set the standard. From athlete welfare to security and crowd management, this marathon has shown that Nigeria can host international-label races. Congratulations to Enugu State and the winners,” Olopade said.
Enugu State Deputy Governor, Barrister Ifeanyi Ossai, said the marathon was consistent with the state’s sports tourism vision.
He said the government had promised a memorable event and delivered on that commitment, adding that Enugu was ready to host the world.
“We promised a memorable marathon and we have delivered. Enugu is ready for the world. This marathon will only get bigger.”
Ossai also congratulated the winners, participants, sponsors and partners whose contributions helped make the event successful.
The Commissioner for Sports, Barrister Lloyd Ike Ekweremadu, commended the Local Organising Committee, sponsors, medical teams and security agencies for ensuring a hitch-free marathon.
He disclosed that the state had applied for World Athletics Road Race Label status for the 2027 edition, a development that could further raise the international profile of the competition.
The organisers expressed appreciation to the official sponsors, including 7Up through Aquafina, Afia TV, Pinnacle, Power Oil and Enugu Air, for their support.
More than 3,000 runners participated across the 42KM and 10KM races, with water stations positioned at five-kilometre intervals. Medical teams, security personnel and entertainment were also deployed along the route and at the finish point.
The successful second edition has strengthened the position of the Enugu City International Marathon as one of Nigeria’s emerging major road races, with organisers already planning an expanded 2027 edition.
