Enugu, Nigeria, May 3rd, 2025: History was made in Enugu State as the much-anticipated 1st Enugu City International Marathon held its debut edition in grand style, attracting world-class athletes, dignitaries, and an enthusiastic crowd. The event not only marked a significant leap in the state’s sporting calendar but also saw Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah personally participating in the 10km road race, which he impressively completed in 45 minutes.
The marathon, featuring both 42km elite races and a 10km road race, was organized under the strict supervision of World Athletics, represented by Nadeem Khan, President of the International Ultra Runners Association. Also present were Chief Tony Okowa, president of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, and Chief Solomon Ogba, First Vice President of the Nigerian Olympic Committee.
East African Athletes Sweep Elite 42km Races
In a showcase of endurance and dominance, athletes from Kenya, Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Somalia took center stage in the elite full marathon. In the men’s 42km elite race, Kenya’s Ken Kopos emerged victoriously, clocking 2 hours, 22 minutes, and 32 seconds to claim the grand prize of $15,000.
His compatriots, Steve Baswey and Bernard Sang, followed closely behind to secure the second and third positions, respectively. They walked away with prize money of $10,000 and $5,000.
The women’s elite race was just as competitive, with Shaoline Chepriroi of Kenya running an impressive 2:44:37 to clinch the top prize of $15,000. Tilahu Birul of Ethiopia came in second at 2:45:10, winning $10,000, while Rita Busiengy, also of Kenyan descent, placed third with a time of 2:47:17, earning $5,000.
Nigerian Athletes Prove Their Mettle
While the East Africans dominated the overall elite rankings, Nigerian athletes also had a strong showing, especially in the local elite categories.
In the Nigerian female elite category, Blessing Shambo stood out, finishing fourth overall with a time of 2:48:04, the fastest among local competitors. Her performance earned her ₦1 million. She was followed by Charity Agofure (2:55:03) and Elizabeth Pam (3:01:45), who took home ₦750,000 and ₦500,000, respectively.
On the men’s side, Davou Gyang was Nigeria’s top performer, finishing in 2:29:03, narrowly beating Boyi Nyango by just three seconds. Iliya Pam took third place. These runners were rewarded with ₦1 million, ₦750,000, and ₦500,000, accordingly.
10km Road Race Draws Local Enthusiasm
The 10km race, which saw participation from citizens, dignitaries, and recreational runners, was another highlight of the day. Governor Peter Mbah led from the front, inspiring both athletes and spectators alike with his impressive 10km time.
In the female 10km category, Lydia Akusho, Esther Afigbo, and Mwantiti Davou clinched first, second, and third positions, respectively. In the male division, Francis James, Iliya Raymond, and Boyi Gang emerged as the top three finishers.
Governor Mbah: “This Is Just the Beginning”
In his address after the event, Governor Mbah described the marathon as more than just a race, calling it a “spectacular event and a testament to the power of sports.” He reaffirmed his administration's commitment to turning Enugu into a global hub for sports, tourism, and investment.
“Remember that I told everyone at last year’s Enugu City Half Marathon that we would elevate this to a truly international event. Today, we’ve made good on that promise,” Mbah stated.
“We hosted elite runners from Kenya, Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Somalia. Next year, we will attract even more — from every continent. Our goal is to position the Enugu City International Marathon as a fixture on the World Athletics calendar.”
He emphasized that the event is part of a larger vision to bring three million annual visitors to Enugu, boost local businesses, and foster youth engagement through sports.
“This isn’t just about recreation. It’s about building dreams, nurturing talent, and creating opportunities. Through sporting events like this, people will come to Enugu, they’ll spend money, invest, and help grow our economy.”
Kudos to Organizers and Security Teams
Governor Mbah extended his heartfelt appreciation to those who made the event a success. He praised the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu, and the team from Nilayo Sports Management Limited, led by Yetunde Olopade, for delivering a world-class event.
He also acknowledged the security agencies, logistics teams, volunteers, and health workers who ensured the safety and success of the marathon from start to finish.
A Star-Studded Flag-Off
The marathon flag-off was graced by several top dignitaries, showcasing wide political and community support for the event. These included:
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Hon. Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives
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Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, Former Governor of Imo State
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Hon. Uchenna Ugwu, Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly
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Numerous federal and state lawmakers, commissioners, and local government officials.
Their participation reflected not only the state’s unified support for Governor Mbah’s vision but also the national importance being placed on sports as a tool for unity and development.
Looking Ahead: A New Legacy for Enugu
The success of the first Enugu City International Marathon marks a new era for sports in Nigeria’s southeast. With meticulous planning, global participation, and massive local turnout, the event has set a new standard for what a state-organized marathon can achieve.
It has also shown that Enugu is ready, not just to host but to lead Nigeria’s sports tourism industry.
With the promise of a bigger and more globally inclusive event next year, the Enugu City International Marathon is poised to become a flagship event on the African and global athletics calendar.
Governor Mbah’s bold vision, coupled with the passion and resilience of the athletes, has ignited a new wave of excitement and optimism across Enugu State.
