RismadarVoice Reporters, August 4, 2026
About 10,000 runners from Nigeria, other West African countries and East Africa are expected to converge on Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, for the 2026 Port Harcourt International Marathon.
The 21-kilometre half-marathon is scheduled to take place on November 14, 2026, with organisers describing the event as a major expansion of the race after a decade of participation largely dominated by runners from within Nigeria.
The Convener of the Port Harcourt International Marathon, Goodluck Azunwena, disclosed this on Monday during a media briefing in Port Harcourt to officially announce the date of the 2026 edition.
Azunwena said the marathon, themed “Green Race,” would go beyond athletics by promoting tourism, culture, healthy living, youth empowerment and economic development.
“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,” he said.
According to him, the event would provide an international platform to showcase Port Harcourt while promoting unity, tourism and economic growth.
He said the organisers had secured the support of the Rivers State Government and some private partners, while discussions remained open with additional sponsors.
Azunwena noted that previous editions recorded about 5,000 registered runners but said increased interest from within and outside Nigeria had prompted the organisers to raise their target.
“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,” he said.
An official of the marathon, Diri Dikibujuri, said the 10th edition had been tagged “Port Harcourt to the World.”
Dikibujuri explained that the event was transitioning from the Port Harcourt City Marathon to the Port Harcourt International Marathon as part of its expansion.
She said the organisers were expecting participants from across Nigeria, West Africa and East Africa.
According to her, the “Green Race” theme reflects the marathon’s focus on life, renewal, growth and environmental sustainability, while also drawing from Port Harcourt’s identity as the Garden City.
She said the race would combine sports with culture, sustainability, education, empowerment, environmental advocacy and youth development.
Dikibujuri added that activities had been planned before, during and after the race, with the organisers aligning the initiative with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3, 11 and 13, which focus on good health and well-being, sustainable cities and communities, and climate action.
She said the organisers were also working to involve residents in efforts to promote a greener and more sustainable Port Harcourt.
The 2026 marathon is expected to attract runners, spectators and visitors from across Nigeria and other African countries, further positioning Port Harcourt as a destination for international sporting and cultural events.
