The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon 2026 is scheduled for February 14, 2026, and excitement is building as runners, fitness enthusiasts, and spectators prepare for one of West Africa’s biggest sporting events. Organisers and local authorities have been sharing details about race plans, routes, and community preparation on official platforms to ensure participants and residents are ready for the annual celebration of endurance, unity, and athleticism. 

The Lagos City Marathon has grown into a key date on Africa’s sporting calendar, attracting athletes from across the continent and beyond. In previous editions, participants from more than 40 African nations have joined the race, making it a truly continental event that promotes healthy lifestyles, tourism, and international competition. 

For the 2026 marathon, organisers have confirmed two main race categories for participants. The first is the full marathon distance of 42 kilometres, a standard distance for long-distance competitive running that challenges elite athletes and experienced runners alike. The second is a 10-kilometre fun run, which provides an accessible option for recreational runners and those new to road racing. Both distances will take runners through key parts of Lagos, blending urban scenes with energetic crowds. 

According to details posted on the official Access Bank Lagos City Marathon page, the full marathon will begin at Grace Garden Events Place in Lekki Phase 1 and finish at Eko Atlantic, a modern coastal development on Lagos Island. The 42km run will start at the Orca Shopping Mall in Eko Atlantic and also finish at Eko Atlantic, allowing participants of all levels to cross the same iconic finish line. 

The marathon is scheduled to begin early in the morning with runners flagged off at 9:30 a.m. to take advantage of cooler temperatures and safer running conditions. Organisers have encouraged registered runners to arrive earlier and complete pre-race briefings and check-ins before the official start time. 

The event includes prize money for both international competitors and local runners, with significant rewards for top finishers in the full marathon. Elite athletes compete for a $50,000 prize for first place, with awards extended to runners finishing in the top eight, while Nigerian prize categories start from ₦2,000,000 for first place. The broad prize structure aims to motivate strong performances while supporting a deeper pool of competitive runners. 

Organisers have also hinted at plans to enhance the race experience with better logistical support, water and refreshment stations along the routes, medical teams, and dedicated fan zones to keep crowds engaged along key stretches of the marathon course. 

As the marathon approaches, running groups and training programmes have emerged across Lagos and other Nigerian cities to help participants prepare. One nationwide training initiative provides structured plans, community support, and tracking tools for runners at every level, from beginners in the 10K run to seasoned athletes aiming for personal bests in the full marathon. These grassroots activities have helped build momentum and social engagement ahead of race day. 

Social media has also been buzzing with runners sharing their training journeys, tips on pacing, and strategies for tackling Lagos’ marathon terrain. Many newcomers and experienced runners alike are documenting their road to race day online, creating a sense of community months before the event itself.

Local authorities are expected to release traffic diversion plans closer to the event to ease commuting during the marathon. Previous editions of the race have seen strategic closures and managed traffic flow along major routes so runners can compete safely and spectators can move easily. Motorists are usually advised to plan alternative routes and heed official advisories to minimise inconvenience. 

Lagos City Marathon organisers have urged spectators and supporters to come out early, respect safety protocols, and encourage runners as they make their way across the city. The event is not just a race but a celebration of fitness culture, community spirit, and Lagos’ growing reputation as a global destination for major sporting events.

As February draws closer, excitement continues to build and runners across Nigeria and beyond are counting down the days to one of the most anticipated athletic events of the year.