Ikogosi Marathon Explodes: 13,722 Runners Shatter Entry Records!
The fourth Ikogosi Marathon in Ekiti State has shattered previous registration records with 13,722 participants, including international runners, for its 17.5km race this Saturday. Founded by Makinde Araoye, the event aims to promote youth development, tourism, and economic empowerment, with plans to become a full international marathon by 2027. This year features elite and local competitions with significant prize money, promising a boost to the local economy.
The fourth edition of the Ikogosi Marathon, scheduled for this Saturday in Ekiti State, has achieved a remarkable milestone, attracting 13,722 registrations. This significant increase includes participation from international runners, notably Kenyan and Ethiopian nationals, highlighting the event's burgeoning appeal. The 17.5km race is set to commence at 7 a.m. from the Ilawe-Ekiti Roundabout, culminating at the picturesque Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort.
This year's registration numbers represent an impressive 109 percent increase compared to the 6,569 participants recorded in 2025. The marathon's journey began modestly in 2014, founded by Makinde Araoye, with just 241 participants competing in a 10km race. By 2019, registrations had surged to 3,786, and last year's event also saw the involvement of Kenyan and Ethiopian athletes, who have registered again for the 2026 race.
Makinde Araoye articulated the core vision behind the marathon, stating its establishment was to leverage sport for the promotion of youth development, economic empowerment, tourism, and community growth. He emphasized that what originated as a local community race has transformed into a powerful platform for showcasing Ekiti State to both national and global audiences. Looking ahead, Araoye revealed ambitious plans for the organizers to stage a full 42.195km international marathon by 2027.
The 2026 edition introduces several competitive categories, featuring male and female elite divisions, alongside dedicated competitions for indigenes of Ekiti State. Substantial prize money awaits the victors, with winners in each elite category set to receive ₦2.5 million. Furthermore, the leading male and female athletes from Ekiti State will each be awarded ₦2 million.
Beyond the competitive aspect, the Ikogosi Marathon is poised to deliver considerable economic benefits to the region. It is expected to stimulate business for local establishments such as hotels, transport operators, and traders, while simultaneously championing healthy living and boosting tourism. The MKD ARAOYE Foundation has been the steadfast financier of this initiative since its inception, which also generates employment opportunities for young individuals and provides financial assistance to National Youth Service Corps volunteers.
Araoye extended an invitation to corporate organizations, multinational companies, and development partners to join in supporting the marathon as it endeavors to realize its ambition of becoming a fully international event by 2027. He underscored the broader objective: "We are building more than a race. We are building a sustainable sporting institution capable of attracting international athletes, visitors and investment while creating lasting economic and social value for Ekiti State and Nigeria."