The marathon, set for March 1 is part of activities to celebrate ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary.

With thousands of runners expected to participate in the 21-kilometre half marathon and the 5-kilometre race, volunteers will be crucial in ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all.

Gabriel Okon, the Race Director emphasised the significance of volunteers in an event that dedicated individuals to handle various logistical and operational aspects.

“Marathon is not just about the runners; it’s about the team behind the scenes. Volunteers are the backbone of any successful race, from registration and logistics to hydration stations and medical support. Their role is invaluable in making the event smooth and enjoyable for everyone,” he said.

Members of the sports family including athletes, coaches, fitness trainers, and others have pledged to support the event in different capacities, from technical assistance to race coordination and mentorship for young runners.

Expressing his delight at the overwhelming response, Okon remarked, “The enthusiasm we are seeing from volunteers is inspiring. From retired directors in the ministry, elite athletes, to community fitness trainers, so many people are eager to be part of this celebration of unity and athleticism. This is more than just a race—it’s a movement that brings people together for a greater cause.

”Beyond the competition itself, the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon represents an opportunity to promote health, youth empowerment, and regional unity through sports.

With over $71,000 in prize money up for grabs, the event is expected to attract elite runners while also encouraging participation from amateur fitness enthusiasts.

Okon stressed that the marathon is not only about athleticism but also about making a lasting impact. “We want this marathon to leave a lasting legacy beyond race day. It’s about inspiring people to embrace fitness, fostering friendships across borders, and promoting a culture of healthy living,” he said.

The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Amadin Enabulele, has urged the chairmen of sports associations to scout for sponsors to support their various associations.

Enabulele, who stated this during the inauguration of the sports associations at the sports hall of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium on Wednesday, said that funding was crucial to the growth and success of sports programmes hence the need to source for sponsors.

He urged the chairmen to make themselves available to all the stakeholders in their various associations as that is the only way to ensure growth and development, noting that they have to assess progress and address key challenges.

He said, “The emphasis for the newly inaugurated chairmen is to actively scout for sponsors to support their respective associations, ensure accessibility at all times and participate in appraisal meetings quarterly with the executive chairman and board members to assess progress and address key challenges.”

“Chairmen are to actively seek sponsorship opportunities to support and sustain their respective associations. Funding is crucial for the growth and success of our sports programmes, so securing sponsors will provide the necessary resources for overall development.“

Accessibility is also an essential area as regards sports development. As a leader, you must be available to address concerns, guide athletes, liaise with coaches and foster a culture of teamwork among members of your association.

“To maintain progress, we will implement appraisal meetings quarterly between the executive chairman, board members and chairmen of various associations. These meetings will serve as a platform to evaluate achievements, and discuss challenges and strategies for continued success.l

Responding on behalf of the chairmen, the chairman of the hockey association, Walter Imoedemhe, expressed gratitude to the Edo State government and the sports commission for giving them the opportunity to serve.

He said the chairman would heed the call to source for sponsors, develop their sports and support the commission in taking sports to an enviable position in the state and Nigeria.