Calabar Marathon Offers ₦1.2m Top Prize and Introduces Local Athletes Category

Posted : 20 October 2026

The 2026 Calabar Marathon will offer a top prize of ₦1.2 million to winners in both the men’s and women’s national and international categories. Organisers have also introduced a separate indigenous athletes’ category to encourage local talent and increase participation among runners from Cross River State.

Speaking in Calabar on October 19, 2026, John Atsu, Managing Director and Chairman of the Calabar Marathon Organising Team, said the organisers were working to develop the event into a world-class competition.

The marathon is themed “Run for Conscience Against Poverty.” It will feature three participation options: a 21.1-kilometre professional race, a 10-kilometre fun run, and a five-kilometre charity and fitness walk for non-governmental organisations and other participants.

Atsu said the organising team was working with technical partners to improve the event and protect runners and spectators. Arrangements have also been made to respond to medical emergencies and other safety concerns.

He explained that there would be no general age discrimination against participants who were physically fit and healthy. However, restrictions would apply to children seeking to participate in the full race.

The chairman also disclosed that technical officials had recently assessed and measured the route to ensure it met the required standards. He expressed optimism that improvements to the course and event management would strengthen the marathon’s international reputation.

The event has received support from organisations including MTN Nigeria and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), according to the organisers.

Prize Money and Indigenous Athletes’ Category

Project Manager Charles Ada outlined the prize structure for the 2026 edition. Winners in the national and international categories will each receive ₦1.2 million, while second-place finishers will earn ₦700,000 and third-place finishers will collect ₦400,000.

The indigenous category will have a separate prize structure for male and female athletes. Winners will receive ₦500,000 each, with ₦300,000 for second place and ₦200,000 for third place.

The organisers have also provided 28 prizes. Eligible participants who finish among the first 28 will receive ₦50,000 each as transportation support, expanding the financial incentives beyond the podium positions.

Ada said the indigenous category was introduced to encourage athletes from Cross River State, particularly young runners from different local government areas. The initiative is intended to give local athletes greater opportunities to compete against runners from other parts of Nigeria and abroad.

Community Development and Poverty Reduction

Beyond the sporting competition, the organisers intend to use the marathon to support community development and economic opportunities in Cross River State.

Ada said plans were underway to engage schools, sports clubs and local communities through outreach activities. These initiatives will aim to promote participation in athletics while creating opportunities for residents to benefit from the event.

The organisers hope the combination of competitive racing, dedicated local prizes and community outreach will strengthen grassroots athletics in the state. The marathon’s poverty-focused theme also places emphasis on using sport to encourage social participation and local economic activity.

Calabar Marathon Offers ₦1.2m Top Prize and Introduces Local Athletes Category

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