History was made in Enugu on Saturday as the 2nd edition of the Enugu City International Marathon was successfully held, with elite athletes Edwin Kipyego of Kenya and Zenebe Aberu of Ethiopia claiming victory in the male and female 42KM races respectively.
The marathon, organized by the Enugu State Government in partnership with Nilayo Sports Management, drew thousands of runners and spectators to the streets of the Coal City. The Athletics Federation of Nigeria was in attendance to give technical support to the event.
Edwin Kipyego, a long-distance runner from Kenya, emerged winner of the elite 42KM male category after a tactical and strong finish in 02:20:38.
The race was flagged off at 6:30am at Shoprite, Abakaliki Road by His Excellency, Governor Dr. Peter Mbah, and took athletes through Independence Layout, Okpara Avenue, and Nike Lake Road before a grand finish at the Mike Okpara Square.
Kipyego made his decisive move at the 37KM mark, pulling away from a pack of 4 elite runners to cross the line first. He went home with $15,000, a gold medal, and the bragging rights as the winner of the 2nd edition Enugu City International Marathon 42KM champion.
“This was a tough but beautiful course,” said Kipyego. “The hills tested us, but the people of Enugu carried us with their cheers. I will definitely return next year.”
Habtamu Girma from Ethiopia finished second in 02:23:39, while Shiferaw Daltiemayu, also from Ethiopia, took third place in 02:23:41.
Gang James Boyi (Male) and Obadih Vivian (Female), both from Nigeria, thrilled thousands of home fans by winning the 10KM race in times of 29:59.00 and 35:13.09 respectively.
With over 3,000 participants, the 10KM was flagged off at 8:30am at Chris Tee Petrol Station, CIC Road. The race was designed to encourage mass participation and discover new road running talents in Nigeria.
Gang Boyi made his move with 3KM to go and held on to claim the ₦3,000,000 top prize.
“Running and winning in my city is a dream,” said Vivian after her victory. “The organization was excellent and I’m proud to be part of history.”
Davwi Gyang (Male) and Mwantiyi Teyei (Female) finished second, while Pam Joshua (Male) and Danjuma Agnes (Female) came third.
The CEO, Nilayo Sports Management, Mrs. Yetunde Olopade, described the event as “world-class”.
“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,” she said.
Enugu State Deputy Governor, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai said “The event aligns with the state’s sports tourism vision.
“We promised a memorable Marathon and we have delivered. Enugu is ready for the world. This marathon will only get bigger,” he stated.
“I want to say congratulations to the winners and all the participants. On behalf of our beautiful state, I want to specially congratulate all our sponsors for always available with your fund to make this progress.”
The Commissioner for Sports, Barr. Lloyd Ike Ekweremadu, commended the LOC, sponsors, medical teams, and security agencies for a hitch-free event. He added that the state has applied for World Athletics Road Race Label status for 2027.
The Local Organizing Committee also extended special appreciation to the Official Sponsors of the Enugu City International Marathon for their invaluable support in making the 2nd Edition a success: 7Up through Aquafina, Afia TV, Pinnacle, Power Oil, and Enugu Air.
Over 3,000 runners participated across the 42KM and 10KM. Water stations were mounted every 5KM, with full medical coverage and entertainment at the Finish Point.
Following the resounding success of the 2nd edition, the Enugu City International Marathon has firmly established itself as a premier destination race in Africa. Buoyed by support from its Official Sponsors, Nilayo Sports Management and the Enugu State Government say plans are already underway for an even bigger 2027 edition.
