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.
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.
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.
