11th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon Breaks New Ground with New Route

Posted : 22 January 2026

The organisers of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon (ABLCM) have announced a new route for the upcoming race.

Kola Daniel, Media Assistant to the Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, made the disclosure in Lagos on Thursday.

Daniel revealed that the World Athletics Gold Label marathon is set to enter an exciting new era as organisers unveil a brand-new race route for the landmark 11th edition, scheduled for Saturday, February 14, 2026.

“For the first time in Africa’s biggest road race, the 42km marathon will now start at ORCA Mall on Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, and sweep through sections of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road,” Daniel said.

“The race will climax at the iconic Eko Atlantic City, showcasing Lagos as the beating heart of road racing in Africa.

“The strategic route change signals the dawn of a new decade for the marathon, prioritising a smoother athlete experience, modern infrastructure, and a refreshed race narrative that places Lagos firmly on the global stage as a fast-rising world city.”

He added that after ten editions on a familiar course woven into Nigeria’s sporting culture, the refreshed route both honours the marathon’s rich legacy and injects renewed energy, curiosity, and spectacle for runners, fans, and international audiences.

Daniel further noted that the inclusion of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road offers a stunning showcase of one of Nigeria’s most ambitious infrastructure projects through a World Athletics Gold Label race broadcast worldwide.

Meanwhile, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, owners of the ABLCM, Yetunde Olopade, said the 11th edition represents more than just another race.

“The 11th edition is not just another marathon; it represents evolution,” Olopade said. “The new route allows us to reimagine the marathon experience while remaining true to our values of excellence, safety, and world-class delivery.

“As a World Athletics Gold Label event, the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon continues to attract elite athletes from around the world alongside thousands of recreational runners, while commanding extensive local and international media attention.

“Beyond competition, the race remains a powerful platform for sports tourism, urban storytelling, youth engagement, and the promotion of healthy lifestyles.

“While the headline-grabbing 42km route has been refreshed for the 11th edition, the 10km race will retain its familiar course, ensuring continuity for participants in that category.”

Olopade added that additional details, including route maps, athlete updates, and race-day logistics, will be released through the official Access Bank Lagos City Marathon communication channels

11th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon Breaks New Ground with New Route

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics