Ekiti State is preparing to host the second edition of the Ikogosi 17.5km Marathon, with organisers projecting about 5,000 athletes to participate in the race scheduled for November 8 at the famous Ikogosi Warm Springs.
Race consultant, Femi Abegunde, announced the details on Tuesday at a press conference in Ado Ekiti. He said the marathon, organised by the Ikogosi Marathon Initiative in partnership with the Ekiti State Government, would feature both elite and indigenous runners.
“The Ikogosi Marathon is more than a sporting event; it is a platform for tourism, health, and community development. The race will promote Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort as a global tourist attraction, boost local businesses through increased patronage, and encourage fitness and healthy living across Nigeria,” Abegunde said.
The event builds on the success of the maiden edition in 2023, which featured a 10km race with over 2,000 runners. This year’s edition, expanded to 17.5km, is expected to draw between 4,000 and 5,000 runners, making it one of the biggest long-distance races in the region.
Abegunde also unveiled the prize package, noting that winners in the elite category would get N2m each for male and female, while second place attracts N1.5m and third place N1m. For indigenous Ekiti runners, the first prize is N1.5m each for male and female, second place N1m, third place N500,000, while prizes will also be awarded up to 10th position.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ekiti State Ministry of Youth Development, Mrs. Sola-Femi Adeluyi, described the marathon as a tool for building character among youths. “It will help our youth to cultivate resilience and leadership, and boost economic activities,” she said.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji also praised the initiative, calling it a flagship project for his administration. Represented by his Technical Adviser on Sports, Dr. Olusola Osetoba, Oyebanji said the partnership showed a commitment to making Ekiti a leading sports-tourism destination.
Ikogosi Warm Spring, the venue of the race, is one of Nigeria’s most unique natural wonders, where warm and cold springs flow side by side without mixing. It has long been a tourist attraction, and the marathon is expected to further spotlight the site while boosting local tourism and the state’s economy.
