Enugu City Marathon 2026 enters final five-day countdown in Coal City

The second Enugu City International Marathon is five days away, with the main race set for Saturday, August 29, 2026. The 42km elite event will begin at 6:30am from ShopRite on Abakaliki Road, while the 10km fun run is scheduled for 8:30am at Chris Tee Petrol Station on CIC Road.

Both races will end at Michael Okpara Square, which will also serve as the centre of activity during marathon week. The five-day Marathon Expo opens at the square on Monday, August 24, bringing together brand activations, wellness activities, cultural displays and entertainment before race day.

Enugu is preparing for an influx of athletes, spectators and visitors. Banners have been placed around the city, hotels are recording increased bookings, and transport operators, restaurants, ride-hailing services and local businesses are expecting higher demand during the event period.

Elite runners are expected to arrive during the week to assess the 42km course. The route will pass through busy commercial areas and quieter city sections, offering participants and spectators views of different parts of Enugu, known as the Coal City.

Race kits, fan zones and entertainment will be based at the expo venue, making Michael Okpara Square the main gathering point ahead of the races. The event is backed by the Enugu State Government and organised by Nilayo Sports Management, with sport, business and culture forming its central themes.

A World Press Conference is scheduled for Thursday, August 28, when organisers will provide final details on prizes, security and logistics. The marathon is the second edition of the Enugu City International Marathon and is being presented as the biggest meeting of sport, business and culture hosted by the state this year.