By Wale Joseph
Interest in the 2nd Enugu City International Marathon is climbing steadily, with athletes from across Nigeria and abroad signing up in large numbers ahead of the August 29, 2026 race.
The event, organized by Nilayo Sports Management with full support from the Enugu State Government, is being positioned as a major driver of sports development, youth participation, and tourism in the South-East.
Mrs. Yetunde Olopade, CEO of Nilayo Sports Management, said the response so far has been beyond expectations.
“I am really impressed with the registration turnout. Both local and international athletes and elite athletes have been trooping out to register for this Marathon and I must say I am impressed,” Mrs. Olopade noted.
According to her, the mix of grassroots runners and top-tier athletes shows growing trust in the Enugu race as a credible and rewarding competition.
With entries still being received, Mrs. Olopade urged emerging runners in the region not to miss out.
“I still want to use this medium to call on young and talented athletes from the South-South and South-East region to go out and register as registration is still ongoing,” she stated.
Organizers say the marathon will serve as a springboard for discovering new Nigerian talents while offering them a chance to compete for significant prize money on home ground.
All key aspects of the event are advancing, including route marking, medical coverage, security deployment, and athlete hospitality.
The 42km Elite Marathon will flag off at 6:30AM from ShopRite, Abakaliki Road, while the 10km Fun Run takes off at 8:30AM from Chris Tee Petrol Station, CIC Road, and ends at Opara Square by 12:30PM. Registration remains open at www.enugucitymarathon.com.
As the August 29 date approaches, the Enugu City International Marathon is setting the stage to become a yearly celebration of speed, culture and opportunity that will put Enugu firmly on the global sports and tourism map.
