Organisers of the PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon, on Thursday, assured participants of a safe and well-coordinated race, with measures in place to address the risks associated with extreme heat.

The organisers said the measures were part of efforts to safeguard athletes and enable them to compete under the best possible conditions.

The Project Manager at Nilayo Sports Management Limited, Emmanuel Odey, gave the assurance in a video message, warning athletes about the dangers of running in high temperatures.

He urged athletes to prepare adequately ahead of the competition.

Odey said: “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.

“Extreme heat is no joke. It can lead to dehydration and even life-threatening heat stroke if runners are not careful.

“Hydrate well, pace themselves and listen to their bodies at all times, even while training.”

To support the athletes on race day, Odey revealed that the organisers will provide chilled water at every 2.5 kilometres along the route. At the finish area, there will also be a cold water bath to help cool down the body of runners after the race.

He added “We will provide chilled water at every 2.5 kilometres along the route, and at the finish area, there will be a cold water bath to help cool down the body after the race.”

The race is scheduled for 14 November 2026. The start point is the Old Parade Ground opposite the Fire Station, while the start time is 6:30am. The finish line is the Velodrome at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

Odey concluded his message with a charge to all participants, “Respect the heat, run smart and finish strong. You are built for this.”