The Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports, Mrs Yetunde Olopade, has described the just-concluded second Enugu City Marathon as a “world-class spectacle,” which “has set the standard.”

Speaking at the end of the race dominated by East Africans, Mrs Olopade said: “From athletes’ welfare to security and crowd management, this 2nd Enugu International Marathon has shown that Nigeria can host international label races.”

Kenya’s Edwin Kipyego and Ethiopia’s Zenebe Aberu won the prizes in the male and female 42KM elite categories. Nigerian runners also showed their strength in the 10KM race, which was designed to encourage mass participation and unearth homegrown road-running talent.

Over 3,000 runners took part in the race, which was organised by the Enugu State Government in partnership with Nilayo Sports Management, while technical support came from the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).

Enugu State Deputy Governor, Ifeanyi Ossai, who represented Governor Peter Ubah, highlighted the economic and cultural impact of the event:

“We promised a memorable marathon, and we have delivered. The event aligns perfectly with the state’s sports tourism vision. Enugu is ready for the world, and this marathon will only get bigger. I want to specially congratulate all our sponsors for always being available with funds to drive this progress.”

On his part, Enugu State Commissioner for Sports, Lloyd Ike Ekweremadu, commended the Local Organising Committee (LOC), medical teams, and security agencies for a hitch-free event. He also announced that Enugu State has officially applied for World Athletics Road Race Label status for the 2027 edition.