L-R: Shehu Dikko, Chairman, National Sports Commission; Chizoma Okoli, Deputy Managing Director, Access Bank Plc; Sang Benard Cheruiyot, 3rd position, 42KM male category; Koech Edwin Kibet, winner; Kipygon Hehemiah, 2nd position, all from Kenya; Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor, Lagos State, and his Deputy Obafemi Hamzat, at the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon’s 10th edition, in Lagos, recently.
By Chidi Ugwu
Access Bank PLC proudly celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon last Saturday, highlighting the platform’s ability to foster unity, promote healthy lifestyles, and showcasing African excellence on the global stage. Since its inception in 2016, the marathon has evolved into a premier event, attracting participants from across the continent and beyond.
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This year’s event, themed, “Miles to Memories,” was particularly significant as it honoured the legacy of the late Herbert Wigwe, former Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings PLC. Wigwe’s visionary leadership was instrumental in establishing the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, and ultimately transforming it from a local initiative into a globally recognised event.
The race commenced at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, with participants traversing iconic landmarks of the city, including the Third Mainland Bridge, before culminating at Eko Atlantic City. The event not only showcased the athletic prowess of its participants but also highlighted Lagos’s vibrant culture and scenic beauty.
Chizoma Okoli, Deputy Managing Director of Access Bank, reflected on the marathon’s journey, saying, “Ten years ago, we embarked on this journey with a simple goal: to create a marathon that would unite people from all walks of life, celebrate the energy of Lagos, and highlight the incredible potential of our continent. Today, as we look back on a decade of memories, we see nearly a million runners who have pounded the Lagos asphalt, millions of spectators who have cheered them on, and countless stories of resilience, triumph, and connection.”
“This race is a perfect metaphor for the vision we hold at Access Bank – to become the world’s most respected African bank. Just as this marathon has grown from a humble beginning to become Africa’s most prestigious road race, our commitment at Access Bank is to build a platform that empowers dreams, connects communities, and showcases Africa’s excellence on the global stage,” she added
In the men’s category the Kenyan’s dominated the podium places, with Edwin Kibet emerging victorious, after completing the 42km race with an impressive time of 2 hours, 14 minutes, and 19 seconds. Kipygon Nehemiah (2:16:37), placed second while winner of last year’s race, Bernard Sang Cheruiyot, crossed the line in 2:16:49 to take home the bronze medal.
The dominance of the Kenyans was, however, halted in the women’s category of the marathon as Ethiopia’s Guta Meseret Hirpa emerged winner. Hirpa got to the finish line in a time of 2:37:04 while her compatriot, Aleminesh Herpha was second in 2:38:01, while Kenya’s Jerono Peris was third also in 2:38:01.
Nigeria also had some bragging rights as for the first time in the Marathon’s history, an indigenous participant finished in the top 10. Nyango Gyang Boyi, finished eighth, with a time of 2:25:41.
The success of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is a testament to the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including the Lagos State Government, Nilayo Sports Management, and the enthusiastic support of Lagos residents.
As the bank reflects on this milestone, it remains committed to empowering communities and promoting sustainability through initiatives like the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon. The bank looks forward to many more years of inspiring stories, athletic excellence, and shared memories.
