Kenyan runner Edwin Kibet emerged victorious in the men’s category of the 2025 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, clinching the grand prize of $50,000 (approximately N75.8 million as of February 15).
The marathon, held on Saturday, saw around 37,000 athletes compete in both the 10km and 42km races. Kibet, 41, crossed the finish line in 2 hours, 14 minutes, and 18 seconds, improving on his third-place finish in the previous edition. Last year’s winner, Bernard Sang, had completed the race in 2:16:49, with another Kenyan, Cheprot, securing second place.
This victory marks Kibet’s second title in three years, having previously won in 2023.
Ethiopia’s Guta Hirpa Wins Women’s Race
In the women’s category, Ethiopia’s Guta Hirpa claimed the top spot with a finishing time of 2 hours and 37.02 minutes, securing her third Lagos City Marathon title.
Nigerian Runner Nyango Boyi Makes History
Nigerian athlete Nyango Boyi made history by finishing in the top 10 overall, placing 8th with a time of 2:25:41.58. He earned a $4,000 prize and an additional N2 million as the first Nigerian to complete the race.
Governor Sanwo-Olu Joins the Marathon
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was among the participants in this year’s marathon, further boosting the event’s significance.
Race Highlights and Road Closures
According to the General Manager of the marathon, retired Nigerian long jumper Yusuf Ali, over 60,000 runners registered for the event, with participation numbers derived from running kit distributions.
The 42km race started at 6:30 am from the National Stadium, Surulere, while the 10km race kicked off at 9:30 am from Grace Garden Event Centre, Lekki. Both races concluded at Eko Atlantic City.
Marking its 10th edition since its inception in 2016, the Lagos City Marathon currently holds a World Athletics gold label. Organizers aim to achieve platinum label status, which would make it Africa’s first marathon to reach that level.
To facilitate the race, the Lagos State Government had earlier announced an eight-hour road closure and traffic diversion from 5 am to 1 pm along designated routes.
