Athletes from Plateau State delivered an outstanding performance at the 2026 Ikogosi Marathon in Ekiti State, securing the top two positions in the men’s elite category of the 17.5-kilometre race.
Gyang James crossed the finish line first in 57 minutes, while his brother, Francis James, finished second in 58 minutes. Rochas Sunday came third after completing the race in 59 minutes.
The race began in Ilawe-Ekiti and ended at the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, attracting athletes from 28 states and international participants from Kenya and Ethiopia.
In the women’s elite category, Teyei Davou emerged winner, followed by Tanko Nvou in second place and Vivian Obadiah in third.
The event also featured indigenous Ekiti categories. Adeyemi Tunde, Adetiba Abiodun and Sunday Emmanuel finished among the top three in the men’s category, while Arinde Miracle, Bako Gift and Ademisoye Adesewa led the women’s category.
Convener of the Ikogosi Marathon Initiative, Makinde Araoye, said the fourth edition recorded about 14,000 registrations, reflecting the event’s growing appeal. He said the initiative aims to promote athletics, discover young talents, encourage tourism and create economic opportunities for Ekiti State.
Araoye also disclosed plans to support promising indigenous athletes and sponsor them for international competitions. He expressed hope that the 2027 edition would be upgraded into a full international marathon.
The event highlights how sporting competitions can create opportunities for athletes while promoting tourism and local economic activity. The Ikogosi Marathon’s growing participation could also help strengthen Nigeria’s long-distance running talent pipeline.
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