By Ayomide Otitoju
East African athletes once again asserted their dominance at the 2025 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, with runners from Kenya and Ethiopia clinching top honors in the annual 42km race.
Kenya’s Edwin Kibet emerged victorious in the men’s category on Saturday, crossing the finish line in 2:14:06 to claim the $50,000 top prize. Kibet, who previously won the marathon in 2023, secured his second title after finishing third last year behind fellow Kenyan Bernard Sang.
In the women’s category, Ethiopia’s Guta Meseret Hirpa claimed her maiden victory, completing the race in 2:37:04.
Historic Feat for Nigerian Runner
Nigerian athlete Nyango Gyang Boyi made history as the first local runner to finish in the top 10. Boyi placed 8th overall with a time of 2:25:41.58, earning a $4,000 prize. As the first Nigerian to complete the race, he also secured the N2 million top prize in the Nigerian category.
Lagos State Governor Among Participants
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu participated in the marathon and was seen crossing the finish line, joining thousands of other runners in this year’s event.
The race commenced at Western Avenue, Surulere, in front of the National Stadium, and concluded at Eko Atlantic City, Victoria Island.
The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon continues to grow in prestige, having been upgraded to a Gold Label status by World Athletics in 2023—less than eight years after its inception.
