By Fayobi Adedoyin
“I applaud the organisers and athletes of the 11th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon for delivering yet another world-class spectacle that reaffirms Nigeria’s growing status as a hub for elite road racing.”
Speaking at the finish line at Eko Atlantic City, The Senior Speical Assistant to the President on Grassroot Sports, Anthony Adeyinka Adeboye commend the organisation, competitiveness, and global appeal of this year’s race, which saw Kenya’s Ezra Kipchumba Kering emerge victorious in 2:11:55 to claim the $50,000 top prize. Uganda’s Lomoi Samuel followed closely in 2:11:59, while Kenya’s Namutala Kephar Lumbasi completed the men’s podium in 2:12:25 in what was a fiercely contested Valentine’s Day event.
This marathon is more than a race; it is a powerful platform for grassroots inspiration, youth participation, and international exposure for Nigerian sports. It continues to show young Nigerians what is possible through discipline, preparation, and opportunity. The Lagos City Marathon has become a true symbol of excellence and belief.
I also commend Nilayo Sports Management Limited and its leadership for their consistency and vision in sustaining a Gold Label marathon that attracts elite runners from across Africa and beyond.
In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Dinke Meseret Meleka claimed first place in 2:37:36, ahead of Kenya’s Daniel Flomena Cheyech (2:37:43), while Ethiopia’s Getaw Wgagen Zewdalem finished third in 2:38:59.
These achievements align perfectly with the Federal Government’s commitment to grassroots sports development, youth empowerment, and positioning Nigeria for greater global competitiveness through sport.
