By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The third edition of the PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon will take place on Saturday, November 7, 2026, with registration for participants opening on Friday, September 18.
The race, organized by Nilayo Sports Management Limited, is expected to attract elite athletes, recreational runners, fitness enthusiasts and participants from across Nigeria and beyond.
Registration will be conducted online, while prospective runners who prefer physical registration can register at the Old Parade Ground, Abuja.
The organizers have urged intending participants to register early to allow adequate time for training and preparation for the 21-kilometre race.
The event is being held under the continued partnership between PremiumTrust Bank, the sole sponsor of the marathon, and Nilayo Sports Management Limited, one of Nigeria’s leading road race organizers.
Since its inception, the partnership has contributed to the growth of the Abuja City International Half Marathon as a major road racing event, combining athletics, fitness, healthy living and sports tourism.
The organizers said this year’s race would feature enhanced athlete services, race logistics, entertainment, medical support, security and spectator engagement.
Speaking at the event, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of PremiumTrust Bank, Emmanuel Efe Efemienim, CON, FCIB, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to sports development and nation-building.
Efemienim said the bank viewed sports as a platform for creating opportunities, inspiring excellence and bringing communities together.
“At PremiumTrust Bank, we believe sports create opportunities, inspire excellence and bring communities together. Our continued sponsorship of the Abuja City International Half Marathon reflects our commitment to investing in initiatives that positively impact lives,” he said.
He added that the bank was pleased to return as the sole sponsor and looked forward to welcoming thousands of runners to Abuja for the third edition.
Also speaking, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, Yetunde Olopade, expressed confidence that the 2026 edition would further enhance the profile of the Abuja City International Half Marathon.
Olopade said the organizers were focused on delivering an event that meets international best practices while providing a quality experience for participants, volunteers, spectators and partners.
She urged intending runners to register early and commence preparations ahead of the November 7 race.
Beyond the competitive aspect, the marathon is expected to promote healthy living, youth engagement and sports tourism, while providing athletes and fitness enthusiasts with a platform to showcase their abilities.
With registration scheduled to open on September 18, runners are expected to secure their places ahead of the November 7 event in Abuja.
