Sports
2 Days to Go: Excitement Reaches Fever Pitch as Enugu City International Marathon Draws Near
…World Press scheduled to hold on Friday
Joel Ajayi
With just two days to go, anticipation is building across the country as the Enugu City International Marathon gears up to take center stage this Saturday, May 3rd.
Set against the scenic backdrop of one of Nigeria’s most vibrant cities, the marathon promises to be a landmark event in the nation’s sporting calendar.
In the lead-up to the big day, a World Press Conference is scheduled for Friday evening, where organizers, sponsors, and key stakeholders will address the media on the logistics, expectations, and vision of the marathon. The press conference will also set the tone for the race and offer insights into Enugu’s broader sports tourism landscape.
The Coal City is already buzzing with excitement as final preparations are made for what is expected to be a spectacular showcase of athleticism, culture, and community spirit.
Thousands of spectators and participants are expected to converge on Enugu to witness and take part in the prestigious race, which features two competitive categories: a 10km race and a full 42km marathon.
The 10km race will begin at the Eastern Nigerian Medical Centre, while the 42km marathon will kick off from Shoprite, as both races will have their finish line at the historic Okpara Square. These routes will not only test endurance but also highlight the beauty and topography of Enugu.
Among those expected in attendance are the Executive Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency Dr. Peter Mbah; Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko; NSC Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade; Nollywood legend, Nkem Owoh, fondly known as “Osuofia” amongst others.
Sports
Lagos State Sports Commission, Abbey Rangers FC Seal Groundbreaking Partnership for Grassroots Football Development
The Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) has unveiled a groundbreaking partnership with Abbey Rangers Football Club, a renowned community football institution in the United Kingdom, marking a new era in grassroots football development in Nigeria.
Under this strategic alliance, Abbey Rangers FC will collaborate with the Lagos State Sports Commission to implement a robust seven-pillar framework focused on:
talent development, coaching enhancement, sports science, community engagement, policy support, resource mobilization, and infrastructure growth.
The partnership is a first of its kind between Nigeria and a UK-based community football club and aims to create a sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive football ecosystem in Lagos State. It promises to unlock new international opportunities for young athletes and coaches, offering pathways for advanced training, mentorship, and global exposure.
Speaking at the official unveiling, Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr. Lekan Fatodu, described the partnership as “a landmark step in Lagos’ mission to build a sustainable and inclusive sports ecosystem.”
“This collaboration represents a deliberate effort to connect Lagos with global best practices in grassroots football development,” Fatodu stated.
“Abbey Rangers brings proven expertise and community-driven values that align with our vision to nurture world-class talent and position Lagos as a continental hub for youth sports excellence.”
In his remarks, Abbey Rangers Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Nick Riley, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting that it reflects the club’s long-standing commitment to community-driven sports development.
“We are proud to partner with Lagos State on this visionary initiative,” Riley said.
“Abbey Rangers has always believed that community football is a powerful tool for development, inclusion, and opportunity. This collaboration allows us to share our grassroots model and experience with one of Africa’s most dynamic cities.”
The LSSC–Abbey Rangers partnership is a reflection of Lagos State’s strategic commitment to developing the next generation of football talent through international collaboration, innovation, and community-based sports programs. It also reaffirms the Commission’s leadership in driving sports diplomacy and youth empowerment across Africa.
-
Featured6 years agoLampard Names New Chelsea Manager
-
Featured6 years agoFG To Extends Lockdown In FCT, Lagos Ogun states For 7days
-
Featured6 years agoChildren Custody: Court Adjourns Mike Ezuruonye, Wife’s Case To April 7
-
Featured6 years agoNYSC Dismisses Report Of DG’s Plan To Islamize Benue Orientation Camp
-
Featured4 years agoTransfer Saga: How Mikel Obi Refused to compensate me After I Linked Him Worth $4m Deal In Kuwait SC – Okafor
-
Sports3 years ago
TINUBU LAMBAST DELE MOMODU
-
News10 months agoZulu to Super Eagles B team, President Tinubu is happy with you
-
Featured6 years ago
Board urges FG to establish one-stop rehabilitation centres in 6 geopolitical zones
