Port Harcourt to Host 10,000 Athletes for International Half-Marathon in November

Approximately 10,000 runners from Nigeria, West Africa, and East Africa are expected to participate in the 21-kilometer Port Harcourt International Marathon, scheduled for November 14, 2026, in the Rivers State capital.

The event marks a major expansion for the marathon, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary by transitioning from a national race into an international competition.

Speaking at a media briefing on Monday, Event Convener Goodluck Azunwena stated that the 2026 edition, themed “Green Race,” aims to promote health, culture, and environmental sustainability while showcasing the state as a destination for international sports tourism. Projecting a turnout double the size of previous domestic events, Azunwena assured the public that adequate security measures and logistics have been put in place alongside support from the Rivers State Government and private partners.

Organizers noted that the “Green Race” theme was selected to support urban renewal and align with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), integrating community outreach, environmental advocacy, and youth development programs into the race schedule.