The 2025 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon showcased exceptional performances from East African runners, with Kenya’s Edwin Kibet and Ethiopia’s Guta Meseret Hirpa clinching top honors in the men’s and women’s categories, respectively. Notably, Nigerian athlete Nyango Gyang Boyi made history by finishing eighth overall, marking the first time a Nigerian has secured a top-10 position in this prestigious event.
Historic Achievement for Nigeria: Nyango Gyang Boyi
Nigerian long-distance runner Nyango Gyang Boyi delivered a remarkable performance by finishing eighth overall with a time of 2 hours, 25 minutes, and 41 seconds. This achievement not only earned him a $4,000 prize but also an additional ₦2 million for being the first Nigerian to cross the finish line. Boyi’s top-10 finish is a milestone for Nigerian athletics, showcasing the potential of local talent in competing alongside international elites.
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Men’s Category: Edwin Kibet’s Triumphant Return
Edwin Kibet of Kenya emerged victorious in the men’s marathon, completing the 42-kilometer course in 2 hours, 14 minutes, and 6 seconds. This victory marks Kibet’s second win at the Lagos City Marathon, following his initial triumph in 2023. His consistent performance underscores Kenya’s dominance in long-distance running on the global stage.
Women’s Category: Guta Meseret Hirpa’s Maiden Victory
In the women’s division, Ethiopia’s Guta Meseret Hirpa claimed her first Lagos City Marathon title, finishing the race in 2 hours, 37 minutes, and 4 seconds. Her victory adds to Ethiopia’s rich legacy in distance running and highlights the country’s continued prominence in international athletics.
Event Overview
The marathon commenced at Western Avenue, near the National Stadium in Surulere, and concluded at Eko Atlantic City, Victoria Island. The event attracted thousands of participants from around the world, reinforcing its status as a premier marathon destination. In 2023, the Lagos City Marathon received a gold label status from World Athletics, reflecting its commitment to excellence and its growing international reputation.
Prize Distribution
The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon offers substantial incentives to elite athletes. The prize structure for the 42km race is as follows:
- 1st Position: $50,000
- 2nd Position: $20,000
- 3rd Position: $15,000
- 4th Position: $12,000
- 5th Position: $10,000
- 6th Position: $8,000
- 7th Position: $6,000
- 8th Position: $4,000
For Nigerian participants, additional prizes are awarded to the top performers:
- 1st Nigerian Finisher: ₦2,000,000
- 2nd Nigerian Finisher: ₦1,500,000
- 3rd Nigerian Finisher: ₦1,000,000
These incentives aim to encourage local participation and recognize the achievements of Nigerian athletes on home soil.
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Governor’s Participation
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu actively participated in the marathon, demonstrating his administration’s commitment to promoting sports and healthy living among residents. His involvement underscores the significance of the event in fostering community engagement and showcasing Lagos as a hub for international sporting events.
The 2025 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon not only highlighted the prowess of East African runners but also celebrated a historic achievement for Nigerian athletics through Nyango Gyang Boyi’s top-10 finish. The event continues to grow in prestige, attracting elite athletes worldwide and inspiring local talent to excel on the global stage.