The 2025 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon: A Decade of Running and a Kenyan Victory
The 2025 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, marking its 10th anniversary, unfolded with exhilarating performances and a renewed commitment to achieving platinum label status. Kenyan athlete Edwin Koech dominated the men’s race, securing his second Lagos City Marathon victory, having previously triumphed in the 2023 edition. Koech’s impressive time of 2 hours and 14 minutes earned him the coveted $50,000 first-place prize, solidifying his reputation as a formidable force in long-distance running. In the women’s category, Ethiopian runner Guta Hirpa claimed victory, adding another title to her collection as a three-time winner of the Lagos Marathon. Hirpa’s time of 2 hours and 37.02 minutes underscored her consistent prowess and dominance in the event.
Beyond the international victors, Nigerian runner Nyango Boyi etched his name in the annals of the marathon by becoming the first Nigerian to finish in the top 10. Boyi’s impressive 8th-place finish, with a time of 2:25:41.58, not only earned him a $4,000 prize but also secured him the coveted N2 million top prize in the Nigerian category. His achievement stands as a testament to the growing strength and competitiveness of Nigerian long-distance runners on the global stage. This achievement underscores the growing prominence of Nigerian athletes in long-distance running and signals a bright future for the sport in the country.
A Growing Legacy: From Gold to Platinum Label Aspirations
The Lagos City Marathon has evolved significantly since its inception in 2016, earning the prestigious World Athletics gold label. Now, the organizers have set their sights on securing the coveted platinum label, a distinction that would elevate the race to the highest tier of international marathons and mark a historic first for an African marathon. This ambition reflects the commitment of the organizers to elevate the marathon to the pinnacle of international running events.
A City Embraces the Marathon: Road Closures and Community Engagement
With over 37,000 runners participating across the 10km and 42km races, the 2025 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon showcased its widespread appeal and its ability to draw both elite athletes and amateur runners. This figure represents the number of distributed running kits from over 60,000 registered participants, highlighting the immense popularity of the event. The logistical undertaking of managing such a large event required meticulous planning and coordination. The Lagos State Government implemented an eight-hour road closure and traffic diversion plan to ensure the smooth running of the race and minimize disruption to the city’s daily activities. This proactive approach demonstrated the city’s commitment to supporting the marathon and accommodating the influx of runners and spectators.
A Festive Atmosphere and a Shared Passion for Running
The marathon courses, commencing from the National Stadium in Surulere for the 42km race and the Grace Garden Event Centre in Lekki for the 10km race, converged at the iconic Eko Atlantic City, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. The scenic routes allowed runners to experience the dynamism of Lagos, from its historic landmarks to its modern developments. The unified finish line at Eko Atlantic City symbolized the shared passion for running and the collective achievement of all participants.
Beyond the Finish Line: The Lasting Impact of the Lagos City Marathon
The Lagos City Marathon has transcended its sporting dimension to become a catalyst for community building and economic development. Beyond the race itself, the marathon has become an instrument for promoting social cohesion and fostering a sense of community among diverse groups of people. The event’s economic impact is also significant, boosting local businesses and tourism through the influx of visitors and increased spending. The marathon serves as a platform for showcasing the city’s vibrancy and resilience, attracting international attention and bolstering its image as a global destination.
The Lagos City Marathon’s continued success not only elevates Nigeria’s standing in the world of athletics but also serves as a powerful symbol of the country’s progress and potential. As the marathon strives for platinum label status, it embodies the ambition and determination of a city and a nation on the rise. The event’s legacy extends beyond the finish line, leaving a lasting impact on the community and inspiring future generations of runners.
