By Sunny Adebija
The Kogi State Government has announced plans to host its first-ever 21-kilometre Half Marathon in Lokoja, the state capital, as part of efforts to promote sports development and healthy living.
The Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Monday Anyebe, disclosed this at a news briefing in Lokoja, stating that the marathon would hold on Thursday, January 22, 2026.
He described the event as a landmark initiative aimed at boosting youth development, sports excellence and tourism in the state.
Mr. Anyebe said the race would feature both professional and amateur runners, noting that adequate safety, medical and traffic management arrangements have been put in place to ensure a smooth and successful event.
He noted that cash prizes and other forms of recognition would be presented to outstanding performers, while side attractions would provide entertainment for residents and visitors.
The commissioner called on corporate organisations, development partners, sports bodies and the general public to support and participate in the historic event, which he said reflects Kogi State’s growing profile in sports development and youth empowerment.
Also speaking, the Secretary of the Central Planning Committee for the Kogi Half Marathon, Mr. Michael Achor, said the race was designed to project the state as a national sports and tourism hub and stimulate the local economy.
He added that the event, which would mark the second anniversary of Governor Usman Ododo’s administration, has already attracted interest from athletes from Ghana and Kenya.
Edited by Ajifa Ainoko
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