Kenyan long-distance runner Ezra Kering delivered a commanding performance to win the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon on Saturday, clocking 2:11:55 to claim the $50,000 top prize.
The 40-year-old sealed victory with a decisive late surge, shaving six seconds off his previous personal best in a race described by organisers as “a masterclass in focus and endurance.”
Although impressive, Kering’s time remains shy of the world’s fastest officially recorded marathon mark of 2:00:35, set by the late Kelvin Kiptum at the Chicago Marathon.
Uganda Breaks East African Hierarchy
This year’s men’s race also witnessed a shake-up in the competition’s traditional pecking order, as Ugandan athletes disrupted the long-standing dominance of Kenya and Ethiopia in Lagos.
Uganda’s Lomoi Samuel finished a close second in 2:11:59, just four seconds behind Kering, while compatriot Namutala Lumbasi secured third place in 2:12:25. The duo earned $40,000 and $30,000 respectively, marking a significant milestone for Uganda at the Lagos showpiece.
The 2026 edition began at Orca Shopping Mall, Ahmadu Bello Way, Eko Atlantic City, and concluded at Eko Atlantic, Victoria Island, following the traditional route through key parts of the city.
Ethiopia Reigns in Women’s Race
In the women’s category, Ethiopia’s Dinke Meleka claimed her second Lagos title, crossing the finish line in 2:37:36. Meleka, who also won the 2022 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, reinforced her pedigree on the international circuit with another composed display.
Kenya’s Cheyech Daniel placed second in 2:37:43, while Ethiopia’s Zewdalem Getaw finished third in 2:38:59.
The result extends Ethiopia’s recent dominance in the women’s race, following victories by Guta Meseret Hirpa (2025), Kebene Chala (2024), Almenesh Herpa (2023), and Siranesh Yirga (2022).
Nigerians Shine on Home Soil
Among the home contingent, Boyi Nyango led the Nigerian challenge in the men’s race, finishing as the first local athlete across the line in 2:25:32. Organisers celebrated his effort with the rallying cry: “Naija no dey carry last.”
In the women’s category, Deborah Badung emerged as the first Nigerian woman to finish, clocking 2:55:46. Access Bank hailed her achievement, declaring, “Lagos, stand up. Our queen is home.”
Lagos Eyes Platinum Status
The structured prize system saw elite runners compete for substantial rewards, while Nigerian athletes battled for designated cash prizes ranging from N2 million for first place to N50,000 for seventh to tenth positions.
Representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat commended organisers and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to elevating the marathon to global heights.
He noted that the race currently holds a Gold Label status and expressed optimism about achieving the prestigious Platinum Label, pledging continued support for sports development and youth engagement in Lagos.
With thrilling finishes, shifting regional dynamics, and renewed ambition for global recognition, the 2026 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon once again cemented its place among the world’s leading road races.
