By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The Enugu State Government, in partnership with Nilayo Sports Management Limited, says preparations are in top gear for the second edition of the Enugu City International Marathon, promising participants a world-class race experience.
The organizers announced that the marathon, scheduled for Saturday, August 29, 2026, will be held under the theme, “Tomorrow Runs Here,” reflecting a commitment to youth empowerment, talent discovery, sustainable sports development and positioning Enugu as an emerging hub for global sporting and economic activities.
According to the organizers, the event is expected to attract long-distance runners and athletics enthusiasts from across Nigeria, including Owerri, Warri, Onitsha, Asaba, Abakaliki and Awka, creating a festive atmosphere across the South-East region.
They said the marathon is designed to identify and nurture indigenous long-distance runners while also attracting elite athletes from Nigeria, Africa and the international athletics circuit.
The organizers added that the race course has been carefully designed to showcase Enugu’s cultural heritage, modern infrastructure and scenic landscape, offering both athletes and spectators a memorable experience.
Registration for the 2026 edition opened on June 15, while the prize structure remains unchanged from the maiden edition.
They also confirmed that the popular 10-kilometre race route will be retained, while the revised 42-kilometre full marathon course and community fitness run routes will be unveiled in the coming weeks.
The organizers said further information on the race routes, elite athlete participation and other side events would be released through the marathon’s official communication channels.
They expressed confidence that with the support of the Enugu State Government under Governor Peter Mbah and the technical expertise of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, this year’s marathon will rank among the most anticipated road races on the African athletics calendar.
