Over five hundred athletes from across Nigeria are anticipated to participate in this year’s Calabar Marathon, set to take place on Saturday, April 19.
Prince Ekpenyong Ojoi, Managing Director of the Cross River State Tourism Bureau, made this announcement in Calabar. He revealed that the victors in the male and female categories will each receive a grand prize of one million naira, while the first and second runners-up will take home N500,000 and N300,000, respectively.
Ojoi emphasised that the 24km Marathon, now in its third edition, is aimed at steering youth away from negative influences. “The purpose of the marathon is to engage young people in positive activities, steering them away from crime and drugs, and channelling their energy positively through this event,” he stated.
Ekpenyong Akiba, Special Adviser to the Governor of Cross River State on General Duties, mentioned that the government aims to use the race as a platform to demonstrate its dedication to sporting excellence. He indicated that the event also seeks to promote unity and provide productive opportunities for the community.
In light of this event, the Cross River State Government has announced that certain roads, including the Carnival Calabar Route from 11-11 Roundabout through Calabar Road, Mary Slessor Avenue, Marian Road, and Ndidem Usang Iso to the Efio-Ette Roundabout, will be closed to all vehicles on Saturday, April 19, 2025, from 6:00 am to 12:00 pm.
A statement from Senior State Security Adviser, Major General O. U. Obono (RTD), clarified that this closure is necessary to facilitate the smooth organisation of the 2025 Calabar Marathon along the specified route.
“The public is urged to comply with this directive and cooperate with security personnel and other stakeholders to ensure a successful marathon,” the statement read.
