As Lagos prepares for the much-anticipated Access Bank Lagos City Marathon on Saturday, February 15, 2025, the atmosphere is charged with emotion and excitement. This year’s event transcends the realm of competition—it is a heartfelt tribute to legacy and a testament to resilience. Under the powerful theme, "Miles to Memories," each step taken by the participants transforms distance into meaningful experiences, blending endurance with remembrance of an extraordinary leader.
Beyond the Finish Line: A Race of Purpose
Since its debut in 2016, the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon has evolved from a local fitness initiative into a world-class sporting event. Established through a partnership between Access Bank and the Lagos State Government, the marathon was initially designed to promote health and wellness. Today, it serves as a symbol of unity, progress, and economic empowerment for Lagos and beyond.
As a Gold Label Marathon, recognized by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), the event places Lagos on the global sports map while driving tourism and economic growth. Hotels, restaurants, local vendors, and transport services thrive during the marathon weekend, benefiting from increased patronage as thousands of runners and spectators converge on the city. This collective participation reinforces the power of unity—when a community rallies around a shared vision, success is inevitable.
Honoring a Visionary: The Legacy of Herbert Wigwe
The 2025 edition carries profound significance, as it marks the first anniversary of the passing of Herbert Wigwe, the former Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings PLC. A champion of this marathon and a driving force behind its success, Herbert Wigwe tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash on February 10, 2024, along with his wife, son, and Abimbola Ogunbanjo, the former Group Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group PLC. The news sent shockwaves across Nigeria, leaving a void in the hearts of many.
In the wake of this tragic loss, speculation arose regarding Access Bank’s continued sponsorship of the marathon. However, instead of stepping back, the bank reaffirmed its commitment to the event, ensuring that Wigwe’s vision lives on. This year, every runner’s stride is not just a movement forward—it is a tribute to a leader who believed in sports, community development, and economic empowerment.
"Miles to Memories": A Journey of Emotion and Endurance
The theme, "Miles to Memories," perfectly captures the essence of the 2025 marathon. Each mile covered represents personal and collective stories—reminders of perseverance, unity, and a shared commitment to a brighter future. For many participants, the race is a way to honor Herbert Wigwe, whose transformative leadership reshaped not only Access Bank but also the sporting culture of Lagos.
His passion for progress extended beyond banking; he saw the marathon as a vehicle for health, community engagement, and tourism development. Today, as thousands take to the streets, their footsteps symbolize resilience and the ability to rise above challenges, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire generations.
FROM MODEST BEGINNINGS TO GLOBAL RECOGNITION
When Access Bank and the Lagos State Government launched the marathon in 2016, their vision was straightforward: encourage a healthier lifestyle among Lagosians. Under Herbert Wigwe’s leadership, the event rapidly gained recognition, attracting over 600,000 athletes from 14 countries. It is now among Africa’s most prestigious long-distance races.
The transformation of the marathon from a local initiative to an internationally acclaimed event underscores the power of vision, determination, and strategic partnerships. Today, Lagos is firmly established as a global marathon city, renowned for its energy, hospitality, and commitment to excellence.
A LEGACY OF UNITY AND PROGRESS
Herbert Wigwe’s impact on the marathon remains undeniable. During the 2021 edition, he stated:
"As a leading financial institution in Africa, we have a responsibility to support the social and economic development of the communities we serve. Sponsoring the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon allows us to make Lagos a more attractive destination for tourists and investors while creating jobs and opportunities for thousands of people."
These words remain a guiding principle for the event. More than just a sporting competition, the marathon stands as a living testament to Wigwe’s unwavering belief in the power of sports to transform lives. His vision continues to fuel initiatives that empower individuals, create employment opportunities, and foster a sense of pride among Nigerians.
SUSTAINING THE MARATHON: THE ROLE OF SPONSORS
The continued success of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is made possible by its sponsors. Access Bank, the title sponsor, has remained steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that the event remains a platform for positive change. In collaboration with the Lagos State Government, the marathon has significantly contributed to the city’s economy while inspiring a new generation of athletes.
The unwavering support from sponsors has been instrumental in maintaining the marathon’s Gold Label status, elevating it to global prominence. Their investment not only honors Herbert Wigwe’s legacy but also ensures that the marathon continues to motivate future generations to embrace healthy living, resilience, and excellence.
A CELEBRATION OF COMMUNITY, COMMERCE, AND STRENGTH
The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon represents more than athletic achievement—it embodies the strength of community and perseverance. Over the years, the event has demonstrated how sports can foster economic growth, tourism, and unity.
During marathon weekend, Lagos experiences a surge in business activity. Hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets welcome an influx of visitors from around the world, while the city’s vibrant culture is showcased on an international stage. This highlights the symbiotic relationship between sports and economic development, proving that major events can serve as catalysts for broader progress.
LOOKING AHEAD: A FUTURE BUILT ON LEGACY AND RESILIENCE
As runners take their positions on February 15, 2025, the race will be more than just a competition—it will be a journey of remembrance and unity. Every step taken is a tribute to Herbert Wigwe’s enduring vision, and every mile completed is a testament to resilience and hope.
Even in the face of loss, the marathon stands as a symbol of perseverance, reminding us that challenges can be transformed into opportunities. It is a day when an entire nation comes together—not just to run, but to celebrate life, legacy, and progress.
The "Miles to Memories" theme encapsulates this journey, highlighting the transition from grief to legacy and from past struggles to future milestones. With steadfast support from Access Bank, the Lagos State Government, and the wider community, this marathon will continue to inspire generations.
As the starting gun fires and runners set off across the vibrant streets of Lagos, they are not merely racing—they are embracing a legacy. Each mile is a reminder of strength, and every memory created along the way fuels the journey toward a brighter tomorrow.
Herbert Wigwe may be gone, but his vision endures in the hearts of every Lagosian and every runner who crosses the finish line. In Lagos, every mile is a memory, and every memory is a step toward a limitless future.
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