Abuja Half Marathon to Deploy Cooling Measures Against Extreme Heat

Posted : 29 October 2026

Organisers of the PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon have unveiled measures to protect runners from extreme heat, including chilled water stations along the route and a cold-water bath at the finish area.

Emmanuel Odey, Project Manager at Nilayo Sports Management Limited, organisers of the race, disclosed the measures while advising participants to prepare adequately for possible challenging weather conditions.

Odey warned that extreme heat could expose runners to dehydration and potentially life-threatening heatstroke, urging them to prioritise their health during training and on race day.

He also drew attention to the potential effects of an impending El Niño climate phenomenon, which could disrupt global weather patterns and increase the risk of extreme temperatures in some regions.

"The world is bracing for a powerful El Niño, a climate phenomenon that can disrupt weather patterns worldwide and lead to extreme heat. Nigeria is a possible risk area, and runners must take the warning seriously," he said.

According to him, participants must remain conscious of their physical condition and avoid pushing beyond their limits when temperatures become challenging.

"Extreme heat is no joke. It can lead to dehydration and even life-threatening heatstroke if runners are not careful," Odey warned.

He advised athletes to maintain adequate hydration, regulate their pace, and pay attention to their bodies throughout their preparation.

"Hydrate well, pace yourselves and listen to your bodies at all times, even while training," he said.

To minimise the risks associated with heat during the competition, Odey said chilled water would be available every 2.5 kilometres along the course.

He added that a cold-water bath would be provided at the finish area to help runners cool down after completing the 21.1-kilometre race.

The organisers said the interventions form part of their preparations to support participants throughout the event.

The 2026 edition of the half marathon is scheduled for Nov. 14 in Abuja, with the race starting at 6:30 a.m. from the Old Parade Ground, opposite the Fire Station.

The course will end at the Velodrome of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, providing a finish point for participants competing in the international road race.

Odey urged runners to approach the competition with discipline and awareness of the potential dangers of running in extreme heat.

"Respect the heat, run smart and finish strong. You are built for this," he said.

Abuja Half Marathon to Deploy Cooling Measures Against Extreme Heat

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