Kenyan long-distance runner Edwin Koech emerged victorious in the men’s category of the 2025 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, securing the top prize of $50,000.
According to The PUNCH, the marathon, held on Saturday, saw Koech cross the finish line in a record time of 2 hours and 14 minutes.
This marks Koech’s second triumph in the prestigious event, having previously won the 2023 edition.
The marathon, now in its 10th year, featured about 37,000 athletes competing in both the 42km and 10km races.
Speaking at the event, Yusuf Ali, the General Manager of the marathon and a former Nigerian long jumper, highlighted the scale of participation.
“We had over 60,000 registered runners, but the final number of competitors was based on the distribution of running kits,” he explained.
The 42km race began at the National Stadium in Surulere at 6:30 a.m., while the 10km race kicked off at 9:30 a.m. from the Grace Garden Event Centre in Lekki. Both races concluded at Eko Atlantic City.
With a World Athletics gold label status, the organizers are now aiming to elevate the event to platinum label status, which would make it the first marathon in Africa to achieve such recognition.
In preparation for the race, the Lagos State Government had announced road closures and traffic diversions between 5 a.m. and 1 p.m. to ensure a smooth experience for both runners and spectators.
