Rivers State is set to welcome thousands of athletes, sports enthusiasts and tourists from across Africa as Port Harcourt hosts the 2026 International Marathon on November 14, in a move expected to boost sports development, tourism and economic activities.

Organisers said more than 10,000 runners, officials and visitors are expected to participate in the event, which they described as a world-class competition designed to project Port Harcourt as a preferred destination for international sporting events.

Convener of Port Harcourt To The World, Goodluck Azunwena, disclosed this in Port Harcourt yesterday, saying the marathon is part of efforts to reposition the Garden City on the global map through sports diplomacy and strategic city branding.

He explained that the event goes beyond athletics, describing it as a platform to promote youth empowerment, healthy living, tourism, social cohesion and economic growth.

Azunwena said the organisation’s decision to relaunch its public engagement after a decade of impactful interventions reflects a renewed commitment to showcasing the strengths and opportunities inherent in Port Harcourt.

According to him, Port Harcourt To The World has spent the past 10 years supporting initiatives that celebrate the city’s resilience, creativity, enterprise, culture and development potential.

“While our voice on social media grew quiet, our work never stopped,” he said.

“Behind the scenes, we have collaborated, supported, advised and championed initiatives that celebrate the resilience, creativity, culture, enterprise and limitless potential of Port Harcourt. Many of the moments that have made our city shine over the past decade have carried our fingerprints, even when our name was not in the spotlight.”

He said the organisation has always prioritised impact over recognition, noting that its partnerships and empowerment programmes have been guided by the vision of building a city that inspires pride among residents and attracts global attention.

Describing the marathon as a flagship initiative, Azunwena said it would stimulate local businesses, attract investment, promote tourism and provide opportunities for young athletes to compete on an international platform.

“The Port Harcourt International Marathon represents far more than a race. It is a platform for unity, tourism, economic growth, healthy living, youth empowerment and global visibility. Through it, we invite the world to experience the true spirit of Port Harcourt,” he said.
He reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to initiatives that would reshape perceptions of the city and position it among the world’s leading destinations.

“As we celebrate a decade of purpose, we are proud to officially reopen this chapter of our journey, driven by renewed energy and an even bigger vision.

“The next decade will be bolder, more visible and more impactful. We will continue to champion initiatives that transform perceptions, create opportunities and unite people around a shared belief that Port Harcourt deserves its place among the world’s great cities,” he added.

The marathon is expected to draw elite and amateur runners, corporate organisations, sports stakeholders and tourists, further enhancing Rivers State’s reputation as a host of major international sporting events.