FCTA Assures of Successful Abuja International Marathon

By: Gyang Dakwo

The Federal Capital Territory Administration has assured that the maiden edition of the Abuja International Marathon set to take place Saturday 29 April will be a pacesetter event for marathons in Nigeria.

FCT Director of Sports, Luka Istifanus stated this during an international press conference held on Friday at the FCT Exhibition Pavilion.

The Sports Director assured that adequate arrangements have been made with relevant agencies to take charge of security, medical emergency, traffic, and crowd control among others.

Luka pointed out that the Malam Muhammad Musa Bello-led FCT Administration is mindful of the role sports plays in the overall development of not only individuals but also society as a whole. He, therefore, stated the commitment of the Administration to provide a conducive atmosphere for sports to thrive in the territory.

The Sports Director welcomed some of the international athletes from Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Bahrain.

Race Director, Olukayode Thomas in his remarks, intimated to the press that the Abuja International Marathon will be an annual event adding that future marathons will be preceded by buildup mini-marathons in places like Gwagwalada, Bwari, and areas within the FCT. These mini-marathons he said will now dovetail into the main event; Abuja International Marathon.

Abuja Digest spoke with one of the runners from Kenya, Emmanuel Naibei who is coming into the race with a personal best (PB) time of 2:08 hours in the 42 km.

He expressed optimism that the race will be a good one for him having come 1st, 2nd, and 4th in the 2021, 2022, and 2023 Lagos International Marathon respectively.

The race which starts at the City Gate and ends at the Car Park behind Eagles’ Square is in three categories, the full marathon (42.195 km) the 10 km Family Race and the 5km for students.