Inception and Growth In February 2016, Access Bank Plc, in partnership with the Lagos State Government, hosted the inaugural edition of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon. The primary goal was to promote a healthy lifestyle by encouraging people to engage in physical exercise. A decade later, the Marathon has evolved beyond just fitness.
Nigerians are reaping significant benefits, particularly in the economic development of Lagos and the country as a whole. At the same time, long-distance runners from around the world continue to enjoy the financial rewards that come with participating in the race. Growth and Global Recognition At its inception, the partnership was designed to support the country’s sports industry and promote a healthy and active lifestyle.
The campaign was themed: ‘Running from the Old to the New’. The first edition in 2016 attracted 50,000 registered participants and was ranked second in Africa—after the Cape Town Marathon—by All-Athletics.com.
It also secured the 71st position among over 1,000 international marathons worldwide. A major milestone was achieved in 2017 when the Marathon clinched the World Athletics Bronze Label after just two editions, making it the third marathon globally to achieve such recognition in such a short time. Two years later, it earned the Silver Label, becoming the first marathon in the world to attain this status after only four editions.
In 2023, the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon achieved yet another remarkable fe.
