By Peace Orjiani
History was made in Enugu on Saturday as the second edition of the Enugu City International Marathon brought thousands of athletes, spectators and residents onto the streets of the Coal City.
The 2026 marathon, organised by the Enugu State Government in partnership with Nilayo Sports Management, featured the elite 42KM Marathon and a 10KM race, with technical support from the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN). Reports from multiple outlets put participation at more than 3,000 runners.
Kipyego Conquers the Men’s 42KM Race
Kenya’s Edwin Kipyego emerged champion of the men’s elite 42KM race after producing a strong tactical finish.
Kipyego clocked 2:20:38, making his decisive move around the 37KM mark, when he broke away from a leading group of four runners. He maintained his advantage through the final stretch to cross the finish line first at Mike Okpara Square.
His victory earned him $15,000, a gold medal and the title of the 2026 Enugu City International Marathon men’s 42KM champion.
Ethiopia’s Habtamu Girma finished second in 2:23:39, while compatriot Shiferaw Daltiemayu came third in 2:23:41.
After the race, Kipyego described the Enugu course as challenging but praised the spectators for their support, saying the hills tested the runners while the people of Enugu carried them with their cheers.
Ethiopia Takes the Women’s Title
Ethiopia also claimed the women’s elite 42KM title, with Zenebe Aberu emerging champion. The victory meant Kenya and Ethiopia dominated the top prizes in the two elite marathon categories.
Nigerians Shine in the 10KM Race
There was also plenty of celebration for Nigerian athletes, as Gang James Boyi won the men’s 10KM race in 29:59, while Obadih Vivian won the women’s 10KM race in 35:13.09. Boyi reportedly made his decisive move with about 3KM remaining.
The 10KM event was designed to encourage mass participation and help identify emerging Nigerian road-running talent.
Enugu Positions Itself as a Sports Tourism Destination
The marathon took athletes through major parts of Enugu, with the 42KM race starting from the Shoprite area on Abakaliki Road and finishing at Mike Okpara Square.
Organisers and state officials have described the event as part of Enugu’s broader ambition to strengthen sports tourism, healthy living and the development of athletics.
Following the success of the second edition, the state has also disclosed that it has applied for World Athletics Road Race Label status for the 2027 edition.
With international athletes, thousands of participants and enthusiastic spectators filling the streets, the 2026 Enugu City International Marathon has further placed the Coal City on the map as an emerging destination for major sporting events.