Port Harcourt to host 10,000 marathon runners from West, East Africa

Approximately 10,000 runners from Nigeria, various West African nations, and East Africa are anticipated to gather in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, for an international half-marathon spanning a distance of 21 kilometers.

The organizers announced that the event, set for November 14, 2026, signifies a new chapter for the marathon after a decade of primarily hosting participants from Nigeria.

During a media briefing on Monday to officially unveil the date, Goodluck Azunwena, the Convener of the Port Harcourt International Marathon, stated that the 2026 edition transcends a mere race, highlighting culture, tourism, and healthy living through sports under the theme, "Green Race."

Azunwena remarked, "As we commemorate ten years of purpose, we are delighted to officially embark on this new phase of our journey, fueled by renewed enthusiasm and an even grander vision, commencing with the Port Harcourt International Marathon on November 14.

"This is a world-class event that signifies much more than a race. It serves as a platform for unity, tourism, economic development, healthy living, youth empowerment, and global recognition. Through this event, we invite the world to experience the authentic spirit of Port Harcourt."

He mentioned that the organizers have already garnered support from the Rivers State Government and several private partners while remaining receptive to further sponsorship opportunities.

Regarding the anticipated number of participants, Azunwena noted that previous editions attracted around 5,000 registered runners, but participation has now been broadened due to heightened interest from both domestic and international runners.

"For this edition, we project to have at least 10,000 runners register for the race. All necessary security measures have been implemented to ensure a seamless event," he stated.

In her comments, marathon official Diri Dikibujuri indicated that the 10th edition has been branded "Port Harcourt to the World."

She said, “As we celebrate the decade of the ‘Green Race’, we are transitioning from what we used to know as the Port Harcourt City Marathon to the Port Harcourt International Marathon. We are proud to announce this year that we are welcoming runners from across Nigeria and other West African countries and East Africa.”

She explained that the theme, “Green Race,” was chosen to reflect the marathon’s renewed vision. “We all know green means life, renewal and growth. In this case, green signifies Port Harcourt as the Garden City. The word ‘race’ goes beyond athletics or sports. It signifies humanity running towards a better life, impact and sustainability,” Dikibujuri said.

She continued, “Together, Green Race is about taking Port Harcourt to the world by building an initiative that delivers multidimensional impact.

“We are bringing together sports, culture, sustainability, education, empowerment, environmental advocacy and youth development under one umbrella. We have activities before the race, on race day and after the race, all aligned with Sustainable Development Goals 3, 11 and 13 because it is an international race.

“We are engaging the entire Port Harcourt community in moving towards a greener city. In the end, we are not just taking Port Harcourt to the world; we are bringing the garden back to the city.”