Port Harcourt to host 10,000 marathon runners from West, East Africa

Port Harcourt is set to host approximately 10,000 runners from Nigeria, other West African nations, and East Africa for an international half-marathon on November 14, 2026. The 21-kilometer race marks a significant expansion for the event, which has primarily featured Nigerian participants for the past decade.

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As we celebrate a decade of purpose, we are proud to officially reopen this chapter of our journey, driven by renewed energy and an even bigger vision, beginning with the Port Harcourt International Marathon taking place on November 14.

Under the theme "Green Race," the 2026 edition aims to be more than just a competition. Convener Goodluck Azunwena described it as a platform for unity, tourism, economic growth, healthy living, youth empowerment, and global visibility. "It is a platform for unity, tourism, economic growth, healthy living, youth empowerment and global visibility. Through it, we invite the world to experience the true spirit of Port Harcourt," Azunwena stated.

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A world-class event that represents far more than a race. It is a platform for unity, tourism, economic growth, healthy living, youth empowerment and global visibility. Through it, we invite the world to experience the true spirit of Port Harcourt.

The organizers have garnered support from the Rivers State Government and private partners, with plans to welcome further sponsorships. Previous editions attracted around 5,000 registered runners, but the projection for 2026 has doubled due to increased interest both within and outside Nigeria. "For this edition, our projection is to have at least 10,000 runners register for the race. Everything in terms of security has been put in place to ensure a hitch-free event," Azunwena added.

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For this edition, our projection is to have at least 10,000 runners register for the race. Everything in terms of security has been put in place to ensure a hitch-free event.

An official, Diri Dikibujuri, announced the 10th edition is tagged "Port Harcourt to the World." The transition from the "Port Harcourt City Marathon" to the "Port Harcourt International Marathon" signifies this broader scope. The "Green Race" theme symbolizes life, renewal, and growth, reflecting Port Harcourt's identity as the "Garden City" and humanity's collective pursuit of a better life.

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As we celebrate the decade of the ‘Green Race’, we are transitioning from what we used to know as the Port Harcourt City Marathon to the Port Harcourt International Marathon. We are proud to announce this year that we are welcoming runners from across Nigeria and other West African countries and East Africa.