Abuja Half Marathon: Organisers Intensify Preparations for November 14 Race

Posted : 02 November 2026

Preparations are gathering momentum for the third edition of the PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon, with organisers working to ensure a successful event on November 14, 2026.

The Federal Capital Territory is expected to welcome thousands of participants for the 21.1-kilometre race. The event will attract elite international athletes, professional running clubs, corporate teams and recreational runners from Nigeria and beyond.

Organised by Nilayo Sports Management Limited, the competition aims to strengthen Abuja's position as a destination for international road-running events. It will also showcase the capital's infrastructure, promote healthy living and encourage greater participation in athletics.

The organisers have intensified preparations across several operational areas. These include route safety, medical support, logistics, electronic timing systems and volunteer mobilisation to provide a smooth experience for athletes and spectators.

Nilayo Sports Management Limited said its commitment extends beyond organising a sporting competition. The company highlighted its focus on wellness, youth empowerment and promoting Nigeria as a destination for major international sporting events.

"We believe in building excellence, and there is no better symbol of excellence than the marathon, where consistency, preparation and resilience meet," the organisers stated.

Organisers Prioritise Athletes' Safety

Athlete welfare has also become a major focus ahead of the competition, particularly because of concerns about extreme temperatures.

Emmanuel Odey, Project Manager at Nilayo Sports Management Limited, has urged participants to prepare adequately, maintain proper hydration and manage their pace during the race.

The organisers have confirmed plans to provide chilled drinking water at every 2.5 kilometres along the route. A cold-water bath will also be available at the finish area to help runners cool down after completing the race.

The race will begin at 6:30 a.m. from the Old Parade Ground, opposite the Fire Station in Abuja. The finish line will be at the Velodrome of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.

International Recognition and Prize Money

The competition will offer financial rewards for elite athletes and Nigerian participants. It will also provide an opportunity for international runners to earn valuable ranking points through their performances.

According to the published prize structure, the elite category winner will receive $8,000, while the second and third-place finishers will earn $6,000 and $5,000 respectively. Separate prizes are also available for Nigerian athletes.

The event continues the partnership between PremiumTrust Bank, its title sponsor, and Nilayo Sports Management Limited.

Since its inaugural edition in 2024, the Abuja City International Half Marathon has developed into an important fixture on Nigeria's road-running calendar.

With the November 14 race approaching, organisers are working to deliver an international-standard competition that combines elite athletics, community participation and sports tourism.

Abuja Half Marathon: Organisers Intensify Preparations for November 14 Race

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics