The 2026 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is almost here! The race is on February 14, 2026, and the city feels alive with anticipation. You can see it all over social media – people sharing their training progress, discussing race details, and just generally getting ready for one of Africa’s biggest running events.
The organisers say this year’s marathon will be something special, not just for professional athletes but for anyone who enjoys running.
One of the biggest changes this year is the new course. It’s a flat, coastal route, and everyone’s talking about it. Yusuf Alli, the General Manager, said they moved the race to the coast to help runners achieve faster times. A part of the route is even below sea level, so both the organisers and the runners are hoping for some amazing, record-breaking performances.
For the first time, the 42-kilometre race will start at ORCA Mall on Ahmadu Bello Way in Victoria Island. From there, it will wind its way along the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road and end at Eko Atlantic City. Instead of looping through the city centre, this route is straighter and smoother, showing off some of Lagos’ newest buildings and giving runners a more even challenge.
The organisers think this coastal route could become known as one of the fastest marathon courses in Africa. Runners are already changing up their training plans, and you can hear them chatting about how they might be able to set personal bests or even break continental or world records. This new route is also a way for Lagos to show the world that its marathon is a major event.
If you’re planning to attend, don’t miss the Marathon Expo! It’s happening from February 9 to February 13 at the Indoor Sports Hall of Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere. The expo is not just a place to check in. There will be fun activities, vendors showing off their products, and a general atmosphere of excitement leading up to the race. Runners can also pick up their official gear there, so they’re all set for the big day.
The organisers are expecting over 40 top runners to compete in the 2026 race. There will be talented athletes from all over the world, as well as some of Nigeria’s best. The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is recognised as a World Athletics Gold Label race, which means it attracts serious runners who want to push themselves on one of the fastest courses in Africa.
The marathon has grown a lot since it started. Now, it’s a major event on Nigeria’s sports calendar. Besides the elite runners, thousands of everyday people join in, which makes for an energetic and welcoming atmosphere throughout the city. Running groups and clubs all over Lagos are doing their final training runs, getting their bodies ready, and preparing mentally for the challenge.
The race organisers have also shared some important information to make sure everything runs smoothly and fairly. The full marathon will kick off at 6:30 a.m., and runners will have six hours to finish the course and get an official finisher’s medal. There will be water stations, medical help, and support teams along the way to assist runners.
For many people, that medal means everything. It’s a reminder of all the hard work, commitment, and achievement that went into training for the race. To get the medal, runners need to complete the course within the six-hour time limit. Even if they don’t make it in time, they can still enjoy the experience of running the marathon.
As the race gets closer, the excitement is spreading beyond just the runners. Local businesses, volunteers, and people who live in Lagos are all getting ready to support the event. There will be traffic updates and public announcements to help manage things on race day and keep everyone safe.
The marathon is more than just a race. It’s a way to encourage healthy living, promote tourism in Lagos, and boost local pride. From experienced marathoners to those trying a 10km or 42km race for the first time, the event brings people together to celebrate sports, strength, and the spirit of the city.
With only 15 days to go, the energy and preparations are ramping up. Whether you’re already signed up or thinking about joining, race day is just around the corner, and Lagos is ready to host an unforgettable event!
