Abuja Half Marathon: Organisers Intensify Preparations for World-Class Race

Posted : 13 November 2026

Nilayo Sports Management says it is intensifying efforts to deliver a world-class experience at the PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon, with preparations reaching an advanced stage ahead of Saturday's race.

Chief Executive Officer of the company, Mrs. Yetunde Olopade, said the organisers were committed to raising the event's standards, promising a memorable competition for athletes and spectators.

“We are ready to deliver another masterpiece of a marathon in the capital city,” Olopade said.

“We have done this before, and we understand what Abuja expects. Every detail has been checked, from the start line to the finish line, from the safety of the athletes to the experience of the spectators.”

She said the competition would showcase Abuja's capacity to host international sporting events while providing athletes with a safe and competitive environment.

“This is not just another race on the calendar. This is Abuja showing the world how a capital city hosts a world-class marathon.

“Our athletes will run on a fast, safe and beautiful course, and our fans will enjoy a spectacle worthy of the city,” she added.

With the race approaching, attention has shifted to critical operational arrangements, including accreditation, security, medical services, traffic management and technical installations.

The organisers have also stepped up preparations for the deployment of race equipment, with bibs, timing chips, branded vests and other essential materials undergoing final checks.

Security personnel have inspected the course stretching from the Old Parade Ground to the Velodrome at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.

Junctions and diversion points have been identified, while residents and motorists around Garki, Wuse and the stadium axis are expected to receive final traffic advisories ahead of race morning.

Medical preparedness is equally receiving attention, with ambulances scheduled for strategic locations and first responders deployed on motorcycles to facilitate quick intervention along difficult sections.

Hydration stations will be positioned at 2.5km intervals, providing runners with water while allowing officials to monitor athletes and identify possible cases of distress.

Meanwhile, technical officials are conducting final tests on timing mats, electronic chips and backup systems to ensure accurate recording of athletes' performances.

The preparations also extend to community participation, with running clubs, schools, volunteers and entertainment groups making arrangements to contribute to the atmosphere surrounding the event.

Hotels and businesses around the route are equally preparing for increased patronage, while photographers are identifying strategic locations to capture the race and Abuja's landmarks.

For Nilayo Sports Management, however, the ambition goes beyond organising a successful road race.

The company wants the competition to provide an opportunity to showcase Abuja's hospitality, sporting infrastructure and tourism potential while inspiring more young people to embrace athletics.

With logistics and operational arrangements nearing completion, the organisers are confident of delivering an event that will leave a lasting impression on participants and spectators. The PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon is also expected to highlight the capital's capacity to host major sporting events while promoting athletics, tourism and community participation.

Abuja Half Marathon: Organisers Intensify Preparations for World-Class Race

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