Ikogosi Marathon Records 109% Rise In Entries, Attracts 13,722 Runners

The fourth Ikogosi Marathon has attracted 13,722 registrations, including Kenyan and Ethiopian nationals, ahead of Saturday’s 17.5km race in Ekiti State.

The race, scheduled to begin at 7 a.m., will start at the Ilawe-Ekiti Roundabout and finish at the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort.

The number of registrations represents a 109 per cent increase on the 6,569 recorded in 2025, underlining the event’s growing appeal among Nigerian and international runners.

Founded in 2014 by Makinde Araoye, the marathon began with 241 participants in a 10km race before growing to 3,786 registrations in 2019. Kenyan and Ethiopian nationals also participated in last year’s edition, with runners from both countries registering again for the 2026 race.

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s event, Araoye said the marathon was established to use sport to promote youth development, economic empowerment, tourism and community growth.

“What began as a community race has grown into a platform for showcasing Ekiti State to Nigeria and the world,” he said.

Araoye added that the organisers were working towards staging a full 42.195km international marathon by 2027.

The 2026 edition will feature male and female elite categories, alongside competitions for Ekiti State indigenes. Winners in each elite category will receive ₦2.5 million, while the leading male and female athletes from Ekiti will each earn ₦2 million.

Beyond competition, the event is expected to generate business for hotels, transport operators, traders and other local enterprises, while promoting healthy living and tourism.

The organisers said the MKD ARAOYE Foundation had funded the initiative since its inception, with the project also providing employment opportunities for young people and financial support for National Youth Service Corps volunteers.

Araoye called on corporate organisations, multinational companies and development partners to support the marathon as it pursues its ambition of becoming an international event in 2027.

“We are building more than a race. We are building a sustainable sporting institution capable of attracting international athletes, visitors and investment while creating lasting economic and social value for Ekiti State and Nigeria,” he said.