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 showcase 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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| 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. |
This year’s event, themed "Miles to Memories," was particularly significant as it honored 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, ultimately transforming it from a local initiative into a globally recognized 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."
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| L-R: Lekan Fatodu, Director General, Lagos State Sports Commission; Shehu Dikko, Chairman, National Sports Commission; Jerono Peris (Kenya), 3rd position, 42KM female category; Guta Meseret Hirpa (Ethiopia), winner; Alemnesh Herpha Guta (Ethiopia), 2nd position; Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Executive Governor, Lagos State, and Chizoma Okoli, Deputy Managing Director, Access Bank Plc, at the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon’s 10th edition, in Lagos, recently. |
She added: "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."
In the men's category, the Kenyans dominated the podium, with Edwin Kibet emerging victorious after completing the 42km race in an impressive time of 2 hours, 14 minutes, and 19 seconds. Kipygon Nehemiah secured second place in 2:16:37, while last year’s champion, Bernard Sang Cheruiyot, finished third in 2:16:49.
However, Kenya’s dominance was halted in the women’s category as Ethiopia’s Guta Meseret Hirpa emerged as the winner, finishing in 2:37:04. Her compatriot, Aleminesh Herpha, secured second place in 2:38:01, while Kenya’s Jerono Peris finished third, also in 2:38:01.
Nigeria also had reason to celebrate, as for the first time in the marathon’s history, an indigenous participant finished in the top 10. Nyango Gyang Boyi secured eighth place 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 Access 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.
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| L-R: Lekan Fatodu, Director General, Lagos State Sports Commission; Bukola Olopade, Director General, National Sports Commission, and Chizoma Okoli, Deputy Managing Director, Access Bank Plc, during the tribute to the late Herbert Wigwe, at the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon’s 10th edition, in Lagos, recently. |
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| Cross section of athletes at the starting point of Access Bank Lagos City Marathon’s 10th edition at the National Stadium, Surulere, in Lagos, recently. |
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