3,000 Athletes Set for 2024 Anti-Corruption Marathon in Abuja

Over 3,000 athletes have registered to participate in the 2024 Anti-Corruption Half Marathon, scheduled to take place in Abuja on December 7.

The fifth edition of the race is designed to raise awareness about corruption and promote collective action against the menace.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, the National Coordinator of the marathon, Jacob Onu, emphasized the symbolic nature of the event, highlighting the parallels between the endurance required in a marathon and the ongoing fight against corruption.

“The fight against corruption is not a one-off battle, but a continuous struggle that demands perseverance and endurance,” Onu said.

“This is the reason behind this initiative—without perseverance, one can’t start and finish a marathon,” he added.

He further announced that the male and female winners would each receive a cash prize of N1 million, while the first and second runners-up will earn N700,000 and N500,000, respectively.

In support of the initiative, the President of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA), Maj.-Gen. Abdullahi Maikano, confirmed the participation of African military teams.

“In my capacity as OSMA President, I will ensure that African military athletes from countries like Niger, Ghana, and Mali join the race. We’ll also use the upcoming African Military Games in Abuja to create awareness for the marathon,” Maikano said.

The President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Habu Gumel, represented by Abdul Ibrahim, President of the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation, called on stakeholders to back the marathon, noting that such events contribute to talent discovery.

The 21.25km race will commence at the Eagles Square, passing through the National Stadium, and conclude at the Unity Fountain.

The event is expected to attract top government officials, members of the National Assembly’s Anti-Corruption Committee, business leaders, and other distinguished Nigerians.