The coastal city of Calabar is gearing up for a vibrant display of athleticism, unity and social advocacy as it hosts the fourth edition of the Calabar Marathon on October 31, 2026.
This year’s event carries a powerful and timely theme: “Run for Conscience Against Poverty.” Beyond the thrill of competition, organizers have positioned the marathon as a platform to spotlight socio-economic challenges, champion grassroots youth development, and support local athletic talent.
Announcing the upcoming event at a press conference in Calabar on Monday, John Atsu, Managing Director of the Cross River Tourism Bureau and Chairman of the Organising Committee, emphasized the deeper purpose behind the race.
“We all know the economic effects of the last few years, inflation, infrastructure, governance and even all the economic impacts across the world. As we do this marathon this year, let us be conscious of the impact of poverty in our spaces, in our communities, in Cross River State.”
Announcing improvements for this year’s race, Project Manager for the Calabar Marathon, Mr. Charles Ada, said the prize money has been significantly increased.
In the National/International category, first place winners in both male and female categories will receive N1.2 million each — an increase of over 20 percent from last year — while second and third place winners will go home with N700,000 and N400,000 respectively.
Ada also announced the introduction of a new Local Category exclusively for indigenous Cross River athletes, with N500,000 for first place, N300,000 for second place, and N200,000 for third place for both male and female winners. In addition, the first 28 finishers will each receive N50,000 as transport support.
He paid tribute to the late Chief of the Tourism Bureau, Prince Ekpenyong Ojoi, who he said made the launch of the marathon possible years ago when the idea was first conceived with limited funding. He also cited local talents such as Godsmind Nelson, who has competed successfully outside the state, noting that the marathon has become a vital platform for discovering young runners across Cross River.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Obi Ayuk, commended the growing synergy between the Ministry and the Tourism Bureau.
“I believe in that spirit of oneness,” Ayuk said, urging the Bureau to sustain the momentum.
On security, the Cross River State Commissioner of Police, CP Ajo Ordue, who was represented by the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, ACP Adewalehinmi Joshua, assured organizers and participants of adequate security before, during and after the event.
“Cross River has been listed as the most peaceful state in the federation. Everyone should be reassured that there is nothing to fear,” he said.
The State Chairman of the Nigeria Association of Athletics Technical Officials (NAATO), Dr. Victor Eyam, confirmed that the Association will provide full technical support for the race but stressed the need for proper medical screening of athletes to prevent casualties on the course.
Former State Chairman of NAATO, Dr. Paul Ebiala, congratulated the organizers for sustaining the event for four consecutive years and expressed hope that the marathon course would be expanded in future editions.
Also speaking, the Acting State Lead of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), Pharm. Franklyn Lumenze, said AHF has been a long-standing partner of the Calabar Marathon and will again provide free HIV testing, prevention services and awareness campaigns during the event.
Organizers said the fourth edition aligns with the current administration’s People First agenda, aimed at engaging communities, schools and sports clubs and positioning the marathon as a platform for youth development and social impact beyond competition.
Culled from Paradise News
