ECOWAS Marathon organisers jerk up prize money for winners

Posted : 04 January 2025

The 2025 ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon, part of the activities commemorating the 50th anniversary of ECOWAS, will feature elite runners from all ECOWAS countries. Additionally, the prize money has been increased.

According to Amb. Francis Chuks Njoaguani, Chairman of the Main Organizing Committee (MOC) of the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon, there will also be other incentives for participants.

Njoaguani revealed that participants in the people’s race—the 5 km fun run, designed to encourage ECOWAS citizens to exercise and adopt running as a way of life due to its immense health benefits—will benefit the most from the increased prize money.

Njoaguani, who also serves as the Director of the ECOWAS Youth and Sports Development Centre in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, stated:
"The 5 km fun run is special to us because we introduced it as part of the 21 km race to encourage more of our people to embrace walking, jogging, exercise, and running as part of their daily routine.

“That is why we have decided to increase the prize money for the 5 km race from $750 to $1,000 (about N1.7 million) to mark the 50th anniversary of ECOWAS and to encourage our people to make running a way of life.

“We are not only increasing the prize money for the winner but also for all top finishers as specified in the participants’ guide. Additionally, we are inviting elite runners from all ECOWAS countries.”

The ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon will be held on March 1, 2025, in Abuja, Nigeria.

The event, featuring 21 km and 5 km race categories, is expected to attract runners and fitness enthusiasts from across the continent and beyond.

The 5 km race will begin at Eagle Square and end at the ECOWAS Commission in Asokoro, Abuja, while the 21 km half-marathon will start at the ECOWAS Commission and return to finish at the same location.

Earlier, Race Director Gabriel Okon disclosed that the race is open to all categories of runners.

“The event is for elite and fun runners, as well as other classes of fitness enthusiasts from across the continent, all vying for their share of over $71,000 in prize money. The marathon is not only a celebration of athleticism but also a showcase of unity and the vibrant spirit of the region.”

ECOWAS Marathon organisers jerk up prize money for winners

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics