Kenyans, Ethiopians Among 13,700 Entrants for 2026 Ikogosi Marathon
Olawale Ajimotokanin Abuja The growing national and international appeal of the fourth edition of the Ikogosi Marathon, scheduled for tomorrow, October 31, 2026, in Ekiti State has been highlighted with
The fourth edition of the Ikogosi Marathon, set to take place on October 31, 2026, in Ekiti State, has seen an unprecedented surge in participation, with over 13,700 runners registered for the 17.5-kilometre race. Kenyan and Ethiopian nationals are among the more than 13,700 participants, marking a 109 per cent increase from the 6,569 runners who took part in the 2025 edition.
Organised by Makinde Araoye, the marathon was established to harness sports as a tool for youth development, economic empowerment, tourism promotion and community transformation. The 17.5-kilometre race will commence at 7:00 a.m. at the Ilawe-Ekiti Roundabout and conclude at the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, a renowned tourism attraction in Ekiti State.
The organisers aim to expand the marathon to a full 42.195-kilometre international race by 2027, with elite categories for both male and female participants, as well as races specifically for the Ekiti State indigenes, offering substantial cash prizes. The participation of athletes from Kenya and Ethiopia further strengthens the event's international appeal, echoing the marathon's growth from a modest start in 2014 to a major fixture on Nigeria's road-running calendar.
The marathon's success is driven by its ability to stimulate economic activity, attract visitors, and create opportunities for local businesses. With the support of the MKD ARAOYE Foundation, the organisers are seeking greater involvement from corporate organisations and development partners to facilitate the event's expansion and its ambitious plans to become a full international marathon in 2027.
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