The 4th edition of the Calabar Marathon is set to return on October 31 with a record N1.2 million grand prize, an expanded 10-kilometer fun run, and a 5-kilometer charity walk, organisers announced at a press briefing in Calabar on Wednesday. Tagged “Calabar Marathon For Sweet Prince 3.0,” the event is themed “Run for Conscience Against Poverty.”
Managing Director of the Cross River State Tourism Bureau, John Atsu, said the marathon is being positioned as a world-class event that will impact local communities. “We intend to make the marathon even better than last year and build from here until we have a truly world-class event that belongs and is retained in Cross River state,” Atsu said, adding that the theme reflects the need for citizens to be conscious of the economic realities affecting residents.
Project Manager Charles Ada disclosed that the prize money for the professional 21.1-kilometer race has been significantly increased. The first-place winners in both the male and female categories will take home N1.2 million each, up from last year’s N500,000. Second-place winners will receive N700,000, while third-place finishers will pocket N400,000.
In a deliberate move to encourage local talent, organisers have introduced a separate domestic category for indigenous Cross Riverians. The first-place male and female winners in this category will each receive N500,000, with N300,000 and N200,000 earmarked for the second and third positions. Furthermore, the first 28 finishers across all categories will receive a N50,000 transport allowance, ensuring a broad spread of the prize purse.
Beyond the elite race, the event is designed to cater to fitness enthusiasts and casual participants. The 10-kilometer fun run will return for those who enjoy sports without the pressure of competition, while the 5-kilometer charity and fitness walk will accommodate non-governmental organisations. The AIDS Healthcare Foundation, a consistent partner, will provide free HIV testing services, distribute condoms, and conduct awareness campaigns during the event.
Technical officiating for the race will be handled by the Nigeria Association of Athletics Technical Officials. Its state chairman, Dr Victor Eyam, called for mandatory medical screening for athletes to prevent casualties during the race. The race will start and finish on the Carnival Calabar route, which has been certified as a 21.1-kilometer course, with the prize presentation scheduled to hold at Marina Leisure Resort.
The Assistant Commissioner of Police, Operations, Adewalehinmi Joshua, who represented the Commissioner of Police, assured participants and visitors of maximum security. He noted that Cross River has been listed as one of the most peaceful states in the federation. For the organisers, the 2026 edition is a chance to expand the event’s scope and give local youth a viable platform to showcase their athletic potential.
